The feeling of a New Year begun is prevalent about Norwood Hospital as elsewhere — not in a material sense, because our fiscal year begins October 1, but in a more intangible sense. There is a feeling of starting anew, of hope — a hope to accomplish great good in curing the ill and injured, a hope that no one will foil, for any reason, a hope that all means will be available — the tools to work with, the people to serve, the friends to encourage and not detract. In a world that Is sick with the disease of distrust, hatred and fear, we can at least in our capacity try to cure the physically ill and hope to succeed. Perhaps with this new year at hand we can help, with faith, hope, and loving kindness, to combat the moral sickness too.
So many people contributed toward making Christmas at Norwood Hospital a happy one, and we are grateful to them all. Some gave financial assistance and others gave of themselves by taking part in our musical program, the making of favors and scrapbooks, gifts of toys for the children, plants, and flowers to decorate the lobby and sunrooms, and a few lovers of children baked and decorated special cookies for our small patients. Two groups of young ladies helped to trim several Christmas trees and tie the red ribbons on wreaths. To all of these good friends, too numerous to mention individually here we say “Thank you“ and we Wish you a very happy New Year.
A RECORD YEAR FOR BABIES!
1956 brought more babies to Norwood Hospital than any other year in its history With 1478 births in 1956 there was an increase of 133 of the 1955 total of 1345. These babies spent the first days of their lives in a modern, scientifically equipped nursery, and were given abundant T.L.C. (tender, loving care) prescribed for their progress, as well as the antiseptically prepared formulas. We wish every one of these babies long, happy and successful lives.
We are very sorry to find that Norwood Hospital has not escaped being the victim of much willful destructiveness which is woefully prevalent in public places during recent months. Lighted cigarettes have been thrown into laundry chutes, the new’ elevator recently installed at great expense has carved initials on the interior walls and other forms of deliberate and wanton destruction have been propagated. Believing this could not be the work of adults, the administration has been forced reluctantly to resumed her position as General Supervisor on days at the hospital. Mrs. Holcomb and her husband have been living in Florida the past several months and have now once more taken up residence in Norwood.
By MARY J. MURPHY
Norfolk County Free Press