Celebrating the impact of Recreational Therapy at Lachine

Do you know the difference that Recreational Therapy makes for patients at Lachine? As we celebrate Recreational Therapy Month in February, let’s find out some of the heartwarming stories from Lachine this past year thanks to the efforts of our staff.

At Camille Lefebvre Pavilion (CHSLD), a resident’s dreams came true when he was able to attend a Montreal Canadiens game thanks to the empathy of a rec therapist. This man was a season ticket holder for his beloved Habs team. After moving into Camille Lefebvre, he met recreational therapist Christine, and opened up to her about his longing to see just one more game: “He thought he’d never see another hockey game in person,” recalls Christine. “But with a lot of work, we made it happen. I went with him and made sure he was completely safe to enjoy the game. The smile on this gentleman’s face was priceless! He was ecstatic… And yes, the Habs won!”

Pina Ventulieri, who has been working at the MUHC for 19 years, enthusiastically spearheaded the expansion of the Recreational Therapy program to include hospitalized patients. Previously, the program was offered exclusively to Camille Lefebvre residents. Thanks to Pina’s vision and commitment, it now provides uplifting activities to patients on the hospital side, many of whom are recovering from falls or waiting to be cleared for discharge. The program features a blend of group and one-on-one activities: Zumba, meditation, arts and crafts, sensory stimulation sessions, etc. Each is designed to include those in wheelchairs.  

“We’re there to feed people socially, spiritually, and emotionally,” asserts Danielle Ann Hirsh, recreation technician who implements the program.

Collaborating with the broader community is a significant part of what recreation staff do. Partnering with the local library, for example, makes it possible to offer more artistic workshops. Partnering with non-profits allows patients and residents to receive generous gifts. At the holidays, a local organization provides patients with a special gift to unwrap (housecoat, sports memorabilia, fine chocolates, beauty products, etc.). This past year, more than 120 residents and 50 hospital patients opened a gift!

The department also organizes visits from local high school students for residents at Camille Lefebvre. Young people take the time to play games with residents, give musical performances, and engage in storytelling.

Recreation staff become family to those who do not receive visitors. Unfortunately, this is the case for many residents at Camille Lefebvre. Fortunately, residents can look forward to daily activities like bingo, beanbag toss, badminton, and arts and crafts. Monthly outings to places like the Botanical Gardens, sugar shacks, apple orchards, St. Joseph’s Oratory, and shopping malls offer an opportunity to experience the community outside the pavilion. Special celebrations such as picnics, summer barbecues, and festive meals bring added joy and a sense of belonging.

“One woman barely speaks, however, she began singing all of the lyrics to an old song that we played,” recounts Christine in amazement. “Our work brings life back to a person. We tell each patient that they are capable. You can socialize, you can paint, you can listen to music… You can do this.” 

“When I go home after work, I’m so satisfied because even those small victories are so amazing,” shares Danielle. 

We are proud to celebrate the dedication and compassion of our recreation team, whose efforts make Lachine a brighter, more vibrant, and nurturing place for everyone.