Norton Children’s Hospital to Establish New Campus in Jeffersontown, Kentucky
In an initiative aimed at enhancing pediatric care in Kentucky, Norton Children’s Hospital has announced plans to develop a new campus in Jeffersontown. This expansive project, which will occupy 150 acres, seeks to deliver comprehensive medical services alongside improved lodging facilities for families. The design emphasizes a tranquil environment conducive to healing, integrating natural elements to help foster emotional well-being during extended hospital stays.
Norton Children’s Hospital is currently engaging with communities throughout Kentucky, soliciting feedback to ensure the new campus meets the diverse needs of families across the commonwealth. To facilitate this exchange, the hospital is conducting a statewide outreach campaign, encouraging residents to share their insights and preferences through an online survey.
Britney Heath, a mother whose daughter, Sadie, has faced significant health challenges, has shared her personal experience at Norton Children’s. While on bedrest at the hospital, Heath discovered that her daughter was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. In addition, Sadie experienced a condition that resulted in the absence of the brain’s central structure, potential learning impairments, and other difficulties.
Reflecting on her circumstances, Heath expressed the emotional toll of such diagnoses, feeling the weight of lost future experiences, including attending prom or supporting her child in sports. She emphasized the importance of an environment that allows families to step back and decompress, acknowledging the psychological benefits of a serene atmosphere.
Pediatric nurse practitioner Kristen Riley articulated the hospital’s commitment to ensuring the new campus addresses the needs of families. “We want feedback from across the state. We want to understand what each community wants in this pediatric campus,” she stated, highlighting the hospital’s inclusive approach.
The proposed campus plans incorporate various natural features, including a lake and wooded areas, intended to provide a peaceful backdrop for families. “For the family’s mental health, it’s going to be a game changer,” added Heath, underscoring the significance of a calming environment during difficult times.
Heath’s daughter, Sadie, is now thriving despite her initial diagnosis, finding joy in activities like competitive cheerleading and softball—a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. “Having a miracle call you ‘Mommy’ is something that can’t really be explained,” Heath remarked, encapsulating the emotional journey many families endure.
Residents interested in contributing their thoughts on the forthcoming pediatric campus are encouraged to participate in the survey available online. Their feedback will play a critical role in shaping a facility that is not only medically advanced but also attuned to the needs of families navigating challenging health circumstances.