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Wis. (WSAW) – A local charity funded the renovation of two pediatric rehabilitation gyms at a Marshfield hospital, creating themed therapy spaces designed to help children recover while engaging in play
The renovations, which cost about $90,000, were funded by the Christmas in July charity. The organization funds a different project each year to bring joy, comfort and support to children facing medical challenges
The first gym, called “Launch Pad,” features an outer space theme with an interactive game wall designed to help preteens and teens with reach, movement and balance
The second gym, “Magic Meadows,” is designed for younger children. It includes a giant Lite-Brite-style wall and a castle play set with a zip line, slide and rock climbing to build strength, grip and coordination
Staff said making the rooms engaging helps ease the recovery process
“So these rooms are important because the kids that are using these gyms are working really hard to get back to being a kid. So running, jumping, playing. A lot of them are working on just being able to walk again,” said Taylor Tischauser, occupational therapist
Wisconsin Rapids 7-year-old Otto Djumadi spent two weeks in the hospital after suffering from a rare inflammation in his upper spinal cord. The condition left him unable to stand and caused him to lose motor function and grip strength in his hands
Otto used the rehab rooms to relearn how to stand, maintain his balance, and walk. He was discharged before the renovations were complete but has since returned to use the new spaces
“Because of the monkey bars, I really like the monkey bars,” Otto said
Tischauser said staff added a play system, a zip line and murals with search-and-find elements to the rooms
Staff at the hospital said about 200 children use the therapy spaces each year. Some patients spend up to three hours a day there, depending on their needs
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