Apr 14, 2016 - Parenting

Levine Children’s Hospital transforms that “hospital” feeling into a visual wonderland (17 photos)

Cristina Wilson

Courtesy of Levine Children’s Hospital CHS

When I was offered the chance to take a tour of Levine Children’s Hospital, I didn’t know what to expect. And – frankly – I was a little nervous about it. Wouldn’t it be really sad?

Believe me when I say I count myself incredibly lucky that I haven’t had any firsthand experience with a children’s hospital, so I couldn’t imagine how the vibe could be anything other than, well, hospital-y.

What I discovered, immediately, was a staff passionate about every detail of the patient experience, and a commitment to bringing joy and comfort into an otherwise terrifying time.

Here are 17 shots that show how Levine Children’s Hospital brings light and whimsy into the lives of their patients and patient families.

This is what you see before you even enter the lobby:

Levine Children's Hospital fish art — Artwork by David Edgar

With the Levine family’s vision, it’s always been curated to feel “childlike, not childish.”

Levine Children's Hospital Seacrest Studios

Being selected as one of the only 10 Seacrest Studios locations nationwide is a huge deal.

Courtesy of Levine Children's Hospital — Courtesy of Levine Children’s Hospital

Celebrity guests come through the studio for broadcast interviews (think Selena Gomez, Cam Newton level), but the system is also used for hospital-wide games of bingo and other entertainment for patients who aren’t able to leave their rooms.

The volunteer team fulfills the labor of 150 full-time employees. That’s dedication. There’s a teen summer volunteer program, too.

Pet therapy, art therapy, shows and entertainment – programming is robust and the siblings of patients are always included in the activities.

Levine Children's Hospital light ceiling

It doesn’t look quite as cool during the day, but there’s a light on every room ceiling that can be activated from the patient’s bed – it’s a distraction but also a small outlet of empowerment for kids during treatments.

You notice the incredible art collection as soon as you walk in. This is “Leaves of Glass” by Donald Lipski.

You see the “tree of life” motif throughout the hospital, too. (You’ve seen the tree before – it’s part of the healthcare system’s logo.)

And then there’s the Panthers floor!

Oh, hey, Cam.

The @NFL MVP will be announced tonight. You know who has our vote. #CaMVP #KeepPounding @Panthers

A photo posted by Levine Children’s Hospital (@levinechildrens) on

This 12th floor outdoor play area always has movies playing — and the floors are soft.

A resource library allows parents and families to do their own research, and the “fun” books are all free for patients to take and keep. (Yes – they accept donations of very gently used books.)

No family ever hopes to experience Levine Children’s Hospital, but if they do, it’s often the fun times that the kids remember and take with them.

Couldn’t resist sharing another photo from yesterday’s #childlife teddy bear clinic! This cutie got to be the doctor, while the bear was the patient. All smiles from both! 🐻