KAPAA — Good-natured laughter filled the auditorium of Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital. “There’s too much space,” a resident with experience in gardens said. “You need to make it lower.” The critique came on the heels of a presentation of mobile
KAPAA — Good-natured laughter filled the auditorium of Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital.
“There’s too much space,” a resident with experience in gardens said. “You need to make it lower.”
The critique came on the heels of a presentation of mobile gardens from Peter Sizelove as an Eagle Project for the Boy Scouts of America, Aloha Council — Kauai.
“I got the idea when I heard about how Josie Pablo, the hospital’s recreation director, wanted some of these types of gardens after visiting other hospitals that have mobile gardens,” Peter said. “She wanted the gardens so residents who weren’t able to get outside to garden could enjoy the benefits of gardening from their beds or rooms.”
After much deliberation and effort, Peter presented the carts, including one which is reserved for a television set for wheeling to residents’ bedsides, to the hospital witnessed by a gathering of the hospital’s staff, residents, Boy Scout leaders, and the St. Catherine’s Service Club.
“Peter used to be a member of the service club which visits the hospital each week,” said Pat Doherty, the club’s leader and advisor. “What a perfect role model he is. The students can see how he’s grown and is giving back.”
John Sizelove, hospital acountant, said Peter wanted to do something to give back to the hospital.
“He was always here,” said Myra Ornellas, hospital’s administrator. “On those times his dad had to work late, Peter was always here, sometimes napping in his father’s office.”
Pablo said the carts took a lot of planning and coordination to construct for the residents’ benefit.
“They are really nice,” Pablo said. “These portable gardening carts can be used by the residents in their rooms, or outdoors.”
Melody Pascual, a resident, was excited, inviting everyone to view the new additions to the hospital, one cart filled with flowering plants in 6-inch pots which fit perfectly in the pre-drilled holes.
“Peter, Peter, Peter,” Pascual kept repeating. “Peter! Come. Hug.”
Pete is a member of Boy Scout Troop 133 sponsored by the Kapaa United Church of Christ.
