Growing Wellness

David and Cynthia Lippe Fund Healing Garden for New Stony Brook Children’s Hospital Building

In a 1984 Science article, environmental psychologist Roger Ulrich published his groundbreaking research, which revealed that hospital rooms with outdoor views assisted patient recovery. Specifically, vegetation — and especially water — elicited positive feelings in patients, reducing their fear, anxiety and stress. Patients had shorter postoperative stays, required fewer drugs, and provided more positive reviews of their nurses.

Long Islanders David and Cynthia Lippe aim to provide similar experiences of respite and rejuvenation for Stony Brook Children’s Hospital patients and families by funding the “Lippe Family Children’s Garden.” The 735-square-foot terrace will feature trees, flowers, water features and comfortable seating in the new Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, opening in 2018.

“David and Cynthia Lippe’s gift supports our goal to nourish the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs of children, their families and our staff through a healing environment,” said Margaret McGovern, MD, physician-in-chief and Knapp Chair in Pediatrics at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. “Because of the Lippes, children and their families will be able to experience some time away from direct medical care, get fresh air and sense the elements and seasons. The garden will be transformational for patients’ moods and healing progress.”

Touring the Children’s Hospital was a moving experience for Cynthia Lippe. “A hospital is a difficult place to live for anybody, especially children,” she said. “We hope that families will find moments of normalcy and respite in the garden.”

Stony Brook’s Senior Vice President for Advancement Dexter A. Bailey Jr. is grateful for the Lippes’ investment in the community treasure that is Stony Brook Children’s. “The Lippes’ gift is something our entire community can celebrate,” he said. “While their generosity will benefit our young patients and their families, their giving also reflects the pride our community has for this wonderful resource that is right in its backyard.”

The Lippes’ gift counts toward The Campaign for Stony Brook’s $600 million goal, the largest fundraising effort in SUNY history. To date, over 38,600 donors have given more than $473 million in support of areas they wish to improve. Invest in what matters most to you at Stony Brook. Visit www.stonybrook.edu/campaign.

— Jordan Chapman