Photo: (left to right). Cheryl Barros, Karin Phibbs, Amy Roberts and Janet Chaney.

The Stettler hospital celebrated the reopening of its atrium Sept. 3 with a small gathering of patients and community members.

Cheryl Barros, council member for the Town of Stettler described the atrium as a place of comfort and healing, thanking community donors and volunteers for their support through fundraisers, donations and acts of kindness. She said the space was also intended as a place “for hope to grow.”

Stettler's Superfluity Thrift Shop was recognized for contributing $23,400 since 2021, while the Festival of Lights committee and its volunteers were also credited for raising funds that helped make the project possible.

Karin Phibbs was honoured for her many hours of work ensuring the atrium remains a welcoming space. Phibbs said plants for the area were purchased using proceeds from the hospital gift shop.

The atrium will also serve as a gathering space, with the Heritage House now hosting a coffee club there sponsored by the gift shop. Organizers said the program offers visitors and residents a retreat from the hospital’s acute care unit.

Following the formal remarks, guests were invited to share in refreshments, with food served in the atrium to mark the occasion and encourage visitors to enjoy the renewed space together.