This weekend, students from Notre Dame High School will descend on Erlanger’s Dodson Avenue Community Health Center to transform three pediatric exam rooms and the pediatric waiting room into a comforting, fun environment for children.
The students plan to paint murals to remove the sterile environment that can be uncomfortable for children.
Art and color have been shown to aid in healing and to uplift a patient’s mood. By removing the sterile environment which pervades most medical facilities, the hope is to put the child at ease and help to escape from any stress or discomfort the child may be experiencing from the environment.
“We are thrilled the students are volunteering their time to provide a fun atmosphere for our pediatric patients,” said Angel Moore, CEO of Erlanger’s South Side and Dodson Avenue Community Health Centers. “Studies have shown a direct link between seeing art and the brain’s reaction to pain, stress and anxiety. We hope to help children feel more comfortable in our clinic and enjoy their visits as much as possible.”
Community partners Integra Wealth, Chattanooga Civitan Club and Sherwin-Williams North Chattanooga have donated money and supplies to this project. This project would not be possible without their contributions.