Renovations Made Possible by SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment Gift Bring Cheer and Comfort to Pediatric Outpatient Unit

Thanks to a gift from SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, some of Florida Hospital for Childrens' sickest patients can receive treatment in a more cheerful environment.

Colorful, undersea-themed wall murals now appear throughout the reception area and hallways of the pediatric outpatient procedures and sedation (POPS) unit, where patients receive lifesaving treatments ranging from chemotherapy to transfusion. Other renovations include a virtual aquarium in the waiting area, and playful, new flooring and seating. The gift from SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment also includes undersea video for patients to view through 3D goggles while undergoing MRI scans.

By providing a playful and more relaxing clinical environment inspired by nature, this project made possible by Florida Hospital for Children's partnership with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment seeks to ease anxiety and stress for some of Florida Hospital's youngest and sickest patients, said Marla Silliman, senior executive officer of Florida Hospital for Children. SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment's generous gift will impact the healing experience of countless children and lift the spirits of their family members and care staff.

The new environment on Florida Hospital for Children's POPS unit is making a difference for patients like Josh Chambers, who has been receiving care for lymphoblastic leukemia since 2013. His father, Jeremy Chambers, said the more colorful environment and the specialized care of child life specialists help keep Josh's mind off treatment.

The benefit of this gift is it gives the child life specialists more tools to work with and more ways to engage the kids and help them with what they're going through, Chambers said.

Florida Hospital for Children incorporates nature-inspired themes throughout its hospital and care network, from undersea to safari.

SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment has a long history of immersing children and families in marine life and nature, said Donnie Mills, president of the three Orlando parks. Being able to bring that to life here at Florida Hospital's POPS unit for children and families in need was an honor for us, and we hope it will provide a unique place for them to play and relax while receiving treatment.