This is part of a series of stories profiling members of the Niagara Health team and the work they are doing as part of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meet Lynn Mytroen, who is providing input on the planning and design of our future South Niagara Site.
Niagara residents, like Lynn Mytroen, have their say in the planning and design of Niagara Health’s future South Niagara Site from the comfort of their home.
In 2013, Lynn was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after a visit to the Emergency Department of the newly opened St. Catharines Site.
“The experience was phenomenally good. It was a brand-new hospital so it put me at ease,” says Lynn. “It was wonderful to walk into this big, bright building. I loved the idea of having a private room with my own washroom.”
Although a diagnosis like non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is never easy, Lynn credits the remarkable care and welcoming atmosphere in making her experience more calming. “While having privacy, bright rooms, and large open spaces are very important in a hospital, the people within are truly the ones who make the experience.”
As a resident of Ridgeway, Lynn was interested in learning more about the future South Niagara hospital. Following an online community update, Lynn reached out to Niagara Health to get involved. Lynn was excited to share her input and suggestions for the design of the future South Niagara Site. Having vast experience with Niagara Health throughout her own journey, Lynn was eager to share first-hand what she felt worked well in a healthcare facility.
“It’s important to have as much light and windows as possible,” says Lynn. “Looking out at trees and nature - it soothes you.”
Since the South Niagara Site will have an older person focus embedded into all aspects of the design and care, Lynn wanted to represent older persons living in South Niagara and highlight the importance of having straightforward wayfinding, easy parking, beautiful scenery and the use of soothing colours throughout the facility.
In regards to the new South Niagara Site, Lynn is excited that one of her top design suggestions will already be included. “The South Niagara Site is in a beautiful location. I’m thankful that even during a pandemic; I am able to safely participate virtually in the planning and design of such an integral part of Niagara.”
If you’re interested in getting involved and providing input into the planning of the new South Niagara Site, please email southniagaraproject@niagarahealth.on.ca
