UMass Memorial Unveils Space-Themed Pediatric Surgery Unit In Worcester

WORCESTER, MA — A Worcester hospital is aiming to make surgery a little less scary, and a lot more imaginative, for its youngest patients.

UMass Memorial Medical Center - Children’s Medical Center has unveiled a new “out of this world” Dunkin’ Joyful Space inside the pediatric day surgery unit at its Hahnemann Campus, the hospital system announced announced Apr. 16.

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The unveiling included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with hospital leadership and foundation representatives, marking one of several initiatives celebrating the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation's 20th anniversary.

The redesigned space, funded by a $150,000 grant from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, transforms pre-op and recovery areas, as well as one operating room, into an outer-space-themed environment designed to ease anxiety for children undergoing procedures.

The pediatric day surgery unit handles more than 1,700 surgeries each year, and the new design is meant to make that experience feel less intimidating for both patients and their families.

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Using space travel imagery, the unit helps explain medical procedures in a more approachable way. Kids are placed in the “captain’s seat” ahead of “liftoff,” reframing surgery as a mission and helping to reduce fear and uncertainty.

“We are grateful to Dunkin’, our local franchisees, and the Joy in Childhood Foundation for their generous support of our pediatric patients and families,” said Dr. Larry Rhein, Chair of Pediatrics at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center. “This Joyful “Outer” Space transformation of the day-surgery areas will help thousands of kids get through procedures with less worry, less fear, and even a bit of fun.”

The project is part of the foundation’s broader mission to bring joy to children battling illness or hunger. Since its launch in 2006, the foundation has granted more than $70 million to nonprofits and hospitals across the country.

“We are thrilled to introduce this Joyful Space to the patients and families at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center,” said Sue Andrade, a Dunkin’ franchisee and foundation board member. "We hope it brings comfort, joy, and a sense of imagination to young patients and their families while they receive care from the region’s leading experts in pediatric medicine.”

UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center serves more than 26,000 children and families each year. Officials say demand continues to grow for pediatric services across the region.

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