LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE

With the help of a matching RPM Grant from the Tri Sigma Foundation, the Alpha Mu Chapter brought 'a little something extra' to young patients at Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children’s Hospital

In the heart of Louisiana, a place of hope and healing now boasts an enchanting addition that is already bringing smiles and joy to the faces of the youngest patients at Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children’s Hospital in Lafayette. The recently updated Child Life Playroom is the latest testament to the impact of the Robbie Page Memorial Fund.

A partnership between the Our Lady of Lourdes Foundation and the Alpha Mu Chapter at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, plus a matching grant through the Tri Sigma Foundation made the playroom possible. A dedication ceremony for the 300-square-foot space was held in April.

The playroom provides a special place for pediatric and PICU patients to participate in therapeutic play, a small oasis of fun and normalcy amidst an often-stressful medical setting.

“There is such a healing modality to providing children the opportunity to do things they would be doing at home that they are unable to do while they are in the hospital,” said Laurel Blanchard, Certified Child Life Specialist. “Being able to have this space allows that.”

With its vibrant colors and an abundance of toys and games, this space has become a beacon of happiness for the hospital's tiniest patients.

It's not just about fun and games; it's a vital component of the healing process. Research shows child life therapy significantly improves the well-being of pediatric patients. According to a study published in Medical News Today, child life interventions reduce anxiety levels in hospitalized children by more than 70 percent.

The Alpha Mu Chapter raised funds through their annual chili cook-off, one of the largest annual philanthropic events hosted by a Tri Sigma collegiate chapter.

"Our annual chili cook-off has been enjoyed by our community for officially a decade. Our members always enjoy seeing how much our sponsors, teams, and attendees enjoy this event," said Alpha Mu Philanthropy Chair Ashley Graffeo. "Our members take so much pride in knowing our hard work supports causes greater than ourselves."

The Tri Sigma Foundation awards grants to local therapeutic play programs nominated by individual members, as well as collegiate and alumnae chapters.

Play therapy helps children cope with difficult emotions and experiences. It can also help children feel more comfortable during medical procedures, like getting a shot or having blood drawn. By teaching them relaxation techniques and distracting them with play, they can feel less pain and fear.

Since the establishment of the Robbie Page Memorial Fund in 1954, Tri Sigmas have contributed more than $2 million in grants to support our philanthropic initiative Sigma Serves Children

Each year, the Foundation awards local grants to programs nominated by individual Tri Sigmas or alumnae/collegiate chapters. Grants up to $5,000 may be awarded to hospitals and clinics for items such tablets, virtual reality headsets, sensory boxes, books, and interactive play tables.

To learn more, visit trisigma.org/foundation/sigma-serves-children