West Edmonton Men’s Shed Program Forges Bonds, Aids Glenrose Patients
The Men’s Shed program in West Edmonton fosters connections among men while supporting patients at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. This grassroots initiative provides a space for men to engage in various projects, promoting social interaction and mental well-being.
Overview of the Men’s Shed Program
Established in Australia during the 1990s, the Men’s Shed program was introduced to Canada in the early 2000s. Today, over 140 Men’s Sheds operate across ten provinces. These groups play a vital role in enhancing men’s health by tackling the issue of social isolation.
Community Engagement
At the Glastonbury/West Edmonton Men’s Shed, members gather monthly to collaborate on community projects. Brian Geislinger, the program liaison, emphasizes that this informal setting allows men to support each other while working on various initiatives. The group has worked on building little libraries, raised garden beds, and benches for the local outdoor rink.
Support for Glenrose Hospital Patients
- Collaborated with Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital
- Created birdhouse and toolbox kits for patients
One of their significant contributions involves providing birdhouse and toolbox kits to the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital’s recreation therapy program. Renae Krushinsky, a recreation therapy assistant, highlighted the importance of hands-on activities for mental stimulation and recovery.
Benefits for Patients
The kits not only aid in physical rehabilitation but also in cognitive and social skill development. Krushinsky noted that the activities encourage patients to share their stories and experiences, fostering a sense of community.
Real-life Impact
A recent example includes Aidan Asher, an 18-year-old patient recovering from a severe accident. His father, Damian Asher, explained how working on projects like the toolbox helps Aidan rebuild his memory and neural connections. This kind of consistent engagement can significantly influence recovery journeys.
Continued Collaboration
Both the Men’s Shed program and Glenrose Rehabilitation are committed to expanding their partnership. With ongoing production of more kits and the continued participation of patients, the initiative aims to make a lasting impact in the community.
In summary, the West Edmonton Men’s Shed program not only fosters bonds among men but also enriches the lives of Glenrose patients, showcasing the profound difference that community support and collaboration can make.
