L-R: Donna N. Arabian, a horticultural consultant, and AnnMarie DiFrancesca, Director, Winthrop's Child Life Program. Winthrop-University Hospital recently received a corporate donation from Fidelity Investments to sponsor a weekly horticultural therapy program for a year at the Hospital's Cancer Center for Kids, an exceptional facility where patients are provided superior medical care, constant nurturing and unconditional support in an environment that promotes healing.

"A calming, soothing experience ideal for pediatric patients, horticultural therapy serves to normalize an often traumatic visit or hospitalization," explained horticultural consultant, Donna N. Arabian.

With Ms. Arabian's guidance, the Center's patients enjoy the opportunity to get involved in group planting sessions; creating seasonal projects; or taking lessons in plant propagation and flower arranging.

"The program's activities provide patients with a sense of control and an outlet for releasing stress," said AnnMarie DiFrancesca, Director, Winthrop's Child Life Program. "By digging and getting their hands dirty, they're not only having fun, but they take ownership of their project."

L-R: John P. Broder, Vice President, External Affairs and Development; Mark Weinblatt, MD, Chief, Division of Pediatric Oncology and Medical Director, Cancer Center for Kids; Linda Sweeney, Practice Manager, Cancer Center for Kids; Scott Knuckles, Fidelity Investments Garden City Branch Manager and Vice President; and Maria Kavan, Development Specialist, Cancer Center for Kids. "Winthrop's horticultural therapy program is exceptional as it truly helps the Center's young patients cope with the stresses associated with illness and having to be in a hospital environment," explained Scott Knuckles, Fidelity Investments Garden City Branch Manager and Vice President. "Fidelity is proud to support creative gardening therapy and community programs that enrich children's lives."

For more information about the program, call (516) 663-9409.