A new space for comfort, reflection, and connection has officially opened at the Stonewall & District Health Centre. On September 23, community members, hospital staff, and donors gathered at the hospital’s palliative care suite to celebrate the completion of the Sunshine and Peace Patio — also known as the Garden Door Project — a vision that has been nearly a decade in the making.

The Interlake Eastern Health Foundation (IEHF) was proud to spearhead this project, helping to bring together community supporters and secure the funding needed to transform an idea into a reality. Executive Director Averill Stephenson welcomed attendees on behalf of the Board of Directors, sharing the story of how the project first began.

“This project was first imagined almost a decade ago,” Stephenson explained. “It began when a patient was being wheeled out into the parking lot to enjoy some fresh air, and the need for a dedicated outdoor space was clear. Sometimes these things don’t happen overnight, but here we are today, and we now have this beautiful space.”

Stephenson expressed gratitude to Sharon Rempel, former chief nursing officer at the hospital, who first envisioned the project, as well as the Southwest District Palliative Care group for their early fundraising efforts. Most importantly, she highlighted the extraordinary generosity of local donor, Irv Koch, whose contributions made it possible for the project to move forward.

“This patio is more than concrete and wood,” Stephenson said. “It’s a place for moments that matter — a place where patients can feel the sun on their face, where families can share quiet time together, and where they can experience the healing benefits of being outside, to breathe, reflect, and find peace.”

Hospital staff also emphasized what the space will mean for patients and families. Carmen Baker, manager of health services at Stonewall Hospital, spoke from the perspective of care providers:

“As a nurse, we see many families going through a really hard time,” she said. “We want to make it the most comfortable space possible for them. This patio helps — it’s a place where people can be outside in the sunshine with their loved ones, having the best time and, for those at the end of life, experiencing the kind of peaceful passing we want for them.”

Baker also acknowledged the work of the hospital’s facilities and operations teams, who collaborated closely with contractors to complete the project quickly once funding was secured.

The celebration concluded with tours of the new patio, refreshments, and conversations about future additions such as outdoor furnishings and window blinds to make the space even more welcoming.

The Sunshine and Peace Patio is a reflection of what is possible when community generosity, healthcare staff, and the Foundation work together toward a shared vision. At IEHF, our mission is to advance health and well-being through community collaboration and innovative solutions. This project stands as a testament to that mission and to the incredible impact of local philanthropy.

For more information about the Interlake Eastern Health Foundation and how you can support projects like the Sunshine and Peace Patio, visit www.iehf.ca or call 204-485-5139.