(BUTLER, PA) - Butler Health System held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Austin’s Playroom, located in the lobby of its patient tower addition. Austin’s Playroom Project is an initiative of the Mario Lemieux Foundation that establishes playrooms in medical facilities. 

This initiative was specifically created after the premature birth of Mario and Nathalie Lemieux’s son, Austin. The idea for this project came as the Lemieux’s searched for a comfortable and calm location within the hospital for their two older children to be engaged during Austin’s care. In 2000, Nathalie founded Austin’s Playroom Project with the goal of establishing playrooms at area hospitals. “Every room is like a dream come true,” says Mrs. Lemieux. “We are so happy to play a part in helping families who have children at Butler Memorial Hospital. We hope Austin’s Playroom makes their experience a little easier. Our goal is to reach as many people as possible.”

To date, funds have been raised to establish 28 Austin’s Playrooms. The opening of the Butler Health System playroom marks the 22^nd room to be completed.

“We are extremely grateful for this opportunity to have an Austin’s Playroom on our campus,” says Ken DeFurio, Butler Health System President & CEO. “We are honored to help Mrs. Lemieux continue her vision of providing a safe, cheerful and calming place for children as we care for their family members.”