Elgin hospital’s Healing Gardens dedicated in memory Sister June

Submitted by Presence St. Joseph Hospital

Presence St. Joseph Hospital will dedicate and bless two newly created Healing Gardens honoring the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at the hospital, 77 N Airlite St., Elgin.

Sister June Does, who served the hospital and community throughout her 62-year calling, was a champion of philanthropic causes and during her tenure, raised funds so that these healing gardens could be created with donated gifts. Since she joined the hospital in 1990, she espoused that they should not only heal the sick but also promote physical, psychological, spiritual and social wellness. The healing garden will be dedicated in her memory. Sister June died on Aug. 3.

These areas will be special environments designed to aid in faster physical and mental recovery. In today’s wellness environment, healing gardens can play a vital role in speeding recovery and lowering health care costs. These gardens successfully aide in patient recovery by brightening spirits and exercising the mind and body. The gardens will provide guests with places to stretch their legs, breathe fresh air and feel the warmth of the sun. Varied landscaping creates seasonal changes in color, aroma and texture.

There are water features allowing patients with different impairments to touch the water without bending over. Interaction with the water benefits patients with its spiritual powers.

Eugene J. McMahon, president and CEO said, “Yes, medicine is truly a science and an art; these gardens will be a beautiful reminder from Sister June of the constant concern we have for our patients and their families.”

Included in the dedication will be the Healing Gallery Art collection featuring sacred paintings by Lillian Pagni, a supporter of Presence St. Joseph Hospital and renowned local artist.