Personal Blog #1

Sami Crouch

One of the most distinguishable features of the University of Utah is the abundance of medical centers found near its campus. Generally, hospitals have an aura of uneasiness surrounding them. By no means do they have stunning architecture, nor are they enclosed by magnificent landscaping. I, however, was lucky enough to spend the better part of 6 months volunteering at a hospital that did not fit this mold.

Primary Children's Medical Center (PCMC) is located on the west side of University Medical Drive. It has a bridge connecting to both the Morgan Eye Center and The University of Utah Hospital to provide convenience and unity between all three facilities.

As soon as you drive through the entrance gate to PCMC, your eyes fall upon a small waterfall and river flowing halfway through the parking lot. Directly outside the front doors lays a courtyard where employees, parents, and patients are able to eat and enjoy the outdoors throughout the day. There is also a hidden garden area towards the east side of the building that is home to a variety of birds, plants, and trees. I have seen many distressed parents disappear into this safe haven to cope with troublesome news.

The inside of the hospital is clearly one that tries to be child-friendly. There is hardly a blank wall in sight, and the ceilings are covered in painted tiles that patients have exercised their artistic skills on. Various decorations blanket the desks, and toys are found around each and every corner. This allows kids to feel somewhat comfortable in such an otherwise intimidating environment.

The importance of the atmosphere surrounding and inside PCMC was not unveiled to me until I realized just how great of an effect it had on the patients. A child would normally be extremely anxious in a place like this, and yet I met many patients who insisted on staying for "only a few more hours" before going home. This was amazing to witness, and showed how different settings impact someone's overall experience. PCMC extends a warm welcome to those who may otherwise feel too nervous and frightened to enter.