Winchester Medical Center's Rehabilitation Tower Will Help Children Grow, Heal, and Thrive

One of the successful submissions for FCIDD's Fall Grant Cycle was in support of an indoor and outdoor playgrounds and two enhanced sensory rooms for the new Winchester Medical Center's Rehabilitation Tower, which broke ground in March 2025. This grant, supported by the Northern Shenandoah Valley Civitan Club, represents a promise to provide all-encompassing care for children and families in the rural Northern Shenandoah community. The grant provides over $39,000 in funding.

Two significant additions are the sensory rooms, which provide safe havens for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and other disabilities to explore their senses and find self-regulation tools. Equipment includes sensory walls, color-changing lights, sound machines, and bean bag chairs, allowing therapists to tailor calming strategies to each child’s preferences. These tools extend beyond the facility, helping families bring comfort and consistency into their child’s life.

The indoor and outdoor playgrounds and the designed equipment requested will transform therapy experiences. Adapted bikes, scooters, and accessible climbing structures will make movement enjoyable under the guidance of therapists. The indoor playground set will feature slides and a rock wall, offering challenges for children of different ages and abilities, fostering confidence, independence, and joy that extends to family and school settings.

By equipping these spaces, the possibility for every child to receive therapy and experience joy, dignity, and hope is ensured. WMC serves 300 pediatric patients, 95 percent with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Cerebral Palsy, traumatic brain injuries, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and Sensory Processing Disorder.

A unique feature of this grant is its support of I/DD individuals through not just the Winchester Medical Center, but also the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum. FCIDD has granted the museum in the past to construct a sensory friendly area, and we are thrilled that Valley Health Pediatric Rehabilitation staff take part in a Sensory Friendly Night at the Museum feared toward children with disabilities and/or sensory challenges. These evenings are held quarterly.