UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital Celebrates the Holidays
Posted
By: Taylor Andres
It can be a lonely experience to spend the holidays in the hospital, especially this year with the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.
To spread some kindness and joy, internationally recognized opera performer, and artistic director of the Pittsburgh Festival Opera, Marianne Cornetti, and international opera singer, Kevin Glavin, dressed up as Santa and Mrs. Claus to deliver holiday presents for child and adolescent inpatient units at UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital.
“Patients of all ages will be in the hospital through the holidays, and making the season feel brighter is important to us,” said Deborah Brodine, president of UPMC Western Psychiatric. “UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital has inpatients who are children or adolescents, who can’t be at home for the holidays, and events like this gift donation can make them feel included and less isolated while they’re away from home.”
Marianne and Kevin performed holiday songs live outside of the hospital for frontline staff, bringing a sense of holiday cheer with elves, gifts and a sleigh.
Like adults, children can struggle with cognitive, emotional and behavioral disorders requiring them to seek behavioral health solutions. Those who are admitted to the hospital are those with the most intense needs— where a child is thought to be a harm to him or herself, or to others, or who are not able to function. Some kids seek care related to depression, anxiety, or trauma, and others seek guidance on reaching developmental and emotional milestones.
