Amy L. Frey

I thought I’d bring you up to date on what we’re doing with the funds from your grant. We bought a number of handheld video games which can be loaned to patients who are confined to their beds. In addition, we bought a Nintendo Wii and Wii Fit. This is a HUGE success and we will probably buy several more. Not only are they suitable for recreation, but they serve a therapeutic purpose as well. We have discovered that spinal cord injured patients can sit on the Fit’s balance board and work on core balance by playing the games. Although we had initially thought we’d buy computer equipment, this is a much better use of the funds, and, I hope, you’ll "approve."

So, in addition to the library reaping the benefits, we are able to get the equipment out to where the patients live at our hospital - on the units and in the gyms. Thank you again for the generosity of Child’s Play. I hope that, in the future, we might be able to apply for additional funds. There are plans to convert space into a patient recreation center and would like to include additional games, equipment, etc. that would enhance their quality of life.

Best,

Amy

Amy L. Frey, MA AHIP

Manager, Health Sciences Library & Resource Center

Hospital for Special Care

New Britain, CT