San Juan Regional Health

San Juan Regional Medical Center is expanding pediatric capabilities in our Emergency Department and inviting the community to help create a more welcoming environment for children and families.

We are partnering with local artist and CEO of Inspire heART Christy Clugston and the San Juan Medical Foundation to transform four Emergency Department exam rooms into child-friendly spaces featuring custom designed, hand-painted murals. 

“San Juan Regional Medical Center looks forward to this opportunity to elevate the delivery of pediatric-focused care and better support our young patients,” said SJRMC President and CEO Jason Rounds.

The project is part of Building Wings 2.0, a new community fundraising initiative that builds on the success of the original Building Wings campaign, which supported enhancements to the hospital's Pediatric Unit. Now, those wings are expanding into the Emergency Department where dedicated pediatric exam rooms will provide a welcoming, calming and healing space to children receiving emergency care.

“These spaces are intended to reduce fear and anxiety, providing comfort during stressful situations,” said Pediatric Unit Manager Melanie Stout.

“The rooms will reflect the compassion, creativity and family-centered focus of the pediatric emergency department while supporting a child-friendly atmosphere for patients of all ages,” added Emergency Department Director Mary Bednar.

As part of the initiative, community members are invited to vote for their favorite mural designs now through Saturday, July 11. Each vote represents a $1 donation and can be submitted online through San Juan Medical Foundation via this link: https://www.sanjuanmedicalfoundation.com/buildingwings2 or in person at the hospital’s Gift Market.

Funds raised through Building Wings 2.0 will support the Pediatric Emergency Department project, including:

• Four beautifully designed, hand-painted mural rooms
• A high-fidelity pediatric manikin
• A GEM rapid analyzer

• Teddy bears
• Pediatric hospital gowns 
• An Inspiration Station stocked with art and crafts supplies

"Every child deserves compassionate, specialized care in an environment designed with their needs in mind," said Stout. "This project helps us continue building the most comprehensive pediatric services in the Four Corners region, ensuring children and families receive exceptional care close to home.”

For more information or to cast your vote, visit: https://www.sanjuanmedicalfoundation.com/buildingwings2.