Some in the group snuck off to our boss’ house for a bonus selfie.
As the hospital celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2015, the public relations department has been encouraging families and staff alike to share their stories – new and old – related to their experiences with Akron Children’s. We also thought it might be a nice idea for us to create and share some memories as well.
After some discussion, myself and other members of the department decided to run/bike/drive to several of the large, metal, flower sculptures commissioned to celebrate our anniversary. Created by Judith Spater and sculptor Stephen Canneto, 25 of these sculptures were placed around the Greater Akron area.
Our journey began at the Virginia Bluebell in Lock 3 Park and continued past other flowers in downtown Akron and the near west side of the city, including sculptures located at our main campus, the Akron Urban League and the Akron Zoo.
Daylily at the Akron Urban League.
“Running through the neighborhoods that are home to the flowers solidified for me how integral the hospital is to the greater Akron community,” said Kelly Daw, our intranet administrator. “Having been a part of getting them delivered to their new homes, it was a great experience to see how they have become a part of the parks and businesses in our community – and embraced by the people that see them every day.”
We eventually made it to the Highland Square area, where we were greeted by Jim King, co-owner of Angel Falls coffee, whose garden patch is home to one of our Deptford Pinks. He made quite an impression on our group.
“I particularly enjoyed talking to employees at the various host sites,” said senior public relations specialist Leslee Fetterhoff. “They took pride in displaying the artwork for our community to enjoy.”
King had woven the flower into the floral display next to his shop.
Deptford Pink at Angel Falls Coffee.
“He also invited us in for cold drinks,” added Holly Pupino, a media relations specialist for Children’s. “This run provided us with a nice reminder of the friendly nature of our community.”
The group split at this point, with some making a stop at Swensons, then meeting up again at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens for our final floral selfie of the afternoon.
“After I finally caught my breath and my sweat dried, I was thankful for the challenge,” said Fetterhoff. “It was definitely an afternoon to remember.”
I have to agree with Leslee. What a blast. I really enjoy the Akron area and am proud to help with the hospital’s mission to keep kids and families healthy and happy. I also like to run so it was nice to have an excuse to do that as well.
So now you have your excuse. Take a look at the locations and visit a flower or two near you. Maybe you’ll have your own story to tell about a friendly shop owner. We’d like to hear from you at publicrelations@akronchildrens.org.
NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.
