Local woman partners with health foundation for pet-themed room at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital

By GILLIAN SLADE on July 31, 2020.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com@MHNGillianSlade

Photographs of adorable pets can help to reduce stress and warm the heart.

Kristina Hyde wanted a way to see children who have to spend time in hospital benefit from a pet-themed room at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. She say she loves animals and they bring a smile to her face.

Hyde approached Medicine Hat & District Health Foundation with the idea, and together they have embarked on a campaign to make it happen.

Pet owners get to submit a photo of their pet that will be featured on the wall in the “We Love Pets” room, said Hyde.

There is a charge of $100 per photo that is submitted to cover the costs of getting them suitably framed and to comply with all the health regulations in a hospital environment.

The Medicine Hat & District Health Foundation will issue a tax receipt.

“The Health Foundation is excited to partner with Kristina.,” said Heather Bach, executive director of the foundation. “She has a passion for animals and what a fun way to help distract children in a hospital room.”

Bach says it can be a scary situation for children to be in hospital.

“We really hope to make the children feel more comfortable during their stay,” said Bach

All money raised will be going toward designing a pet-themed room, and if there is any leftover, all will go to the children’s floor for any purchases they may need, said Hyde.

“This pet-themed room will bring a lot of happiness to sick children,” said Hyde.

Anyone wanting to help Hyde is welcome to call the foundation at 403-528-8133 or send us them an email at info@ourhealthfoundation.ca

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