Providing fun for playful minds
Published 9:40 am Wednesday, March 11, 2015
The Playful Center is open for fun at Southampton Memorial Hospital. Three local businesses have contributed a mixture of games, toys, DVD’s and iPads for children to enjoy while they recuperate as patients. Displaying items in front of the storage locker, also provided, are, from left: Dallas Banks of NAPA Auto Parts of Franklin; Mary Ann and Brad Turner of Southern Charm Garden Center; Dr. Maria Ona, pediatrician; Heidi Turner, clinical coordinatot; Dr. Danielle Carter, family medicine; Kim Marks, hospital CEO; Dr. Anrae Applewhite, pediatrician; and Robby Cutchins of Bobby’s Tire and Auto Center. — Stephen H. Cowles | Tidewater News
FRANKLIN
Recuperating from an illness or injury can be tedious for anyone, perhaps especially if the patient is a child staying in a hospital. Recognizing that, a few local business owners have recently bestowed an assortment of diversions for children who are patients at Southampton Memorial Hospital.
Southern Charm Garden Center, Bobby’s Tire and Auto Center and NAPA Auto Parts of Franklin made the presentation of crayons, coloring books, stuffed animals, DVDs and even iPads. All these were distributed and neatly stored in several boxes, then shelved in a locker decorated with bright splashes of color.
Brad Turner of Southern Charm credits Charles Tillman of the Chicago Bears for inspiration in doing the local outreach. He said the football player started what’s become known as Charles’ Lockers about six years ago. In Franklin, the unit is called Playful Minds Fun Center.
In addition, Mary Ann Turner recalled that she and husband have been at the hospital for their children, and would have to bring games and toys to while away the time.
“We want to make it easier for other people with children and make it a more kid-friendly setting,” she said.
Deciding on the project, they also called on Robby Cutchins of Bobby’s auto shop and Dallas Banks of NAPA for help as co-sponsors. The businesses’ logos are also part of the locker design.
The Turners both said that if people would like to help replenish the locker supplies, to send monetary donations to the Franklin-Southampton Chamber of Commerce. The hospital will follow infection control precautions on any multi-patient use products such as iPads or DVD’s. But for obvious reasons of hygiene, gently used toys, etc., cannot be accepted.
Teresa Beale, executive director, said to send checks to the Chamber at P.O. Box 531, Franklin, Va., and be sure to note on the memo line the purpose of the contribution. Call 562-4900 for details.
“The hospital is very grateful for this donation and appreciates the support of these business leaders,” said Kim Marks, CEO of the hospital.
