MONROE — A once-blank hallway in the Family Birth & Women’s Health unit at SSM Health Monroe Hospital is now filled with color, meaning and celebration thanks to a new wildflower mural that proudly shares the message, “Families Bloom at SSM Health Monroe Hospital.” 

The idea for the mural grew from a desire to transform a space that every family and visitor passes through into something memorable to celebrate growth, love and one of life’s most meaningful milestones.

“We wanted to create a welcoming, joyful space on our unit where families could take their ‘going home’ photo,” shared Alicia Hammon, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, Family Birth Charge RN. “This hallway is a space every family and visitor passes through, so it felt like the perfect opportunity to turn it into something special and meaningful.”

Hammon envisioned a wildflower theme because of its symbolism and emotional connection to birth and new beginnings. Wildflowers, she explained, represent growth, strength and beauty that often flourish in unexpected places much like the unique stories of each family welcomed on the unit. 

In the time since the mural has been completed, excitement has spread as team members frequently pause to admire the artwork as they move throughout the unit.  For many families, it has also quickly become a favorite stop before discharge, marking the end of one journey and the beginning of another. 

The mural was created by Suzanne Miller of Green Chicks Studio. Suzanne is a local artist who previously painted the murals in the Family Birth nursery and waiting room when the hospital was built in 2012. 

Working freehand, Miller brought the nurses’ vision to life, allowing the design to evolve naturally on the wall. While some flowers are recognizable, others are imaginative shapes that flow together into a vibrant garden. One small detail carries special personal meaning to her: a cluster of purple violets added in memory of her father, who passed away shortly before she began painting. 

“He used to sing the silly song Sweet Violets,” Miller shared. “It seemed an apt addition.”

Thew new mural reflects the Family Birth & Women’s Health team’s commitment to a caring, family-centered environment. As families pause for a final photo before going home, it celebrates the special moments and memories made at SSM Health Monroe Hospital.