Parkridge CEO Mark Sims and Photographer Rhonda Mathis
Twenty-two babies and their families were recently honored with a reception at Parkridge East Hospital as their photographs were unveiled in the newly remodeled waiting room in The Birth Place. The babies, all born at Parkridge East during the first half of 2008, were randomly selected from submissions of baby photographs sent to the hospital during a recent promotion.
Rhonda Mathis of Rhonda Mathis Photography photographed the selected babies and had the photographs framed for the exhibit. The exhibit represents another phase of the renovation and remodeling of The Birth Place, the obstetrical unit on the first floor of Parkridge East. “As we work to remodel rooms and areas within the Birth Place at the hospital, we want to create a sense of home and family here at the hospital,” said Mark Sims, Chief Executive Officer of Parkridge East. “The addition of the photographs of the babies fit perfectly into that theme in our remodeled waiting area. We’ve already received many positive comments about the artwork from visitors and our staff. The pictures are incredible and they reinforce the miracles that happen everyday here at Parkridge East.”
Rhonda Mathis graciously donated her time to photograph the babies and the framing for the hospital. Her partnership with Parkridge East grew out of her appreciation for the hospital during the birth of her own children. “My three children were delivered at Parkridge East,” says Mrs. Mathis. “The compassionate nature of the staff at Parkridge East was evident from the moment that I arrived at the hospital. Even now, as I walk the halls of the hospital, I feel a connection that I cannot explain. This project exemplifies the personal atmosphere that the hospital conveys and I feel privileged to be working with Parkridge East on redecorating the Birth Place.”
Parkridge East Hospital CEO Mark Sims and photographer Rhonda Mathis welcomed guests. Each contest winner received a gift bag, compliments of Parkridge East Hospital and Rhonda Mathis Photography, which included an 8” x 10” photograph that matched their portrait that is displayed in the Birth Place lobby.