Findlay, Ohio - Whether you're fighting cancer, or know someone who is, cancer affects each of us, including the RCM Architects family. In 2013 and 2014, RCM Architects lost both Tina Warsop-Beam and Cathy Zellner to this terrible disease. That is why we are so passionate about, and proud to be a part of, the Armes Family Cancer Care Center.
Located in the Eastern Woods Medical Campus, this addition will allow Blanchard Valley Health System to provide more comprehensive cancer care services in a single location. Accompanying a 2013 investment of a new Linear Accelerator, which offers advanced radiation care for some advanced cancers, this final phase of the facility expands oncology services, radiation therapy, infusion therapy, on-site lab services, on-site pharmacy services, patient care, clinical trials, and financial and nutritional counseling services.
Research suggests that "viewing nature may reduce the amount of time and pain medications a patient uses to recover from certain medical treatments." With this in mind, the expansion is also slated to include a 10,000 sf Therapeutic Garden adjacent to where patients will receive a majority of their cancer care.
RCM worked with hospital staff to design a garden that provides year-round interest and color, providing patients a little respite during a difficult time. A sculptural, ornamental tree was added as a focal point to the wheelchair accessible garden space. Community members have the opportunity to buy engraved, decorative metal leaves for the healing tree to honor someone battling cancer or in memory of someone who has lost their battle with cancer. Each person who purchases a leaf will receive another leaf to take home as a keepsake, identical to the one on the tree.
Below is a short video showing the delivery of the tree from Findlay Machine and Tool to the site, and its installation in the Virginia B. Gardner Healing Garden:
Construction of the Cancer Center is currently being completed. The Blanchard Valley Health Systems have scheduled a Public Open House for Tuesday, October 20th at 5:00 PM. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.