Thanks to the generosity of philanthropists Mort and Iris November and the talent of local artist Hector Vega, brilliant flowers in bloom will always welcome children and families to MetroHealth, one of the largest health care providers in Northeast Ohio. The sculpture, titled “Grow Love”, features vibrant flowers shaped as hearts. It was dedicated at 6:15 p.m. Dec. 10, 2010 in a celebration of the donors. The sculpture is located at the entrance of the Women & Children’s Pavilion at MetroHealth.
This is the first donation on the west side of Cleveland for the Novembers. The couple has long supported philanthropic causes for children, in honor of Mort’s daughter Debra Ann.
The Novembers were inspired to make their donation after learning about MetroHealth’s unique and nationally recognized programs for children. "They hope children who are entering the hospital, who are frightened — and parents who are frightened — will walk up to this flower garden and it will make them smile,” said Iris November.
Mort added, “They will see this beautiful welcoming piece, lit up at night with beautiful colors, and they’ll know that they are welcome here to get care. Many of the people who are not able to afford the care know that they are welcome here at Metro.”
Dr. Peggy Stager, Interim Chair of Pediatrics for MetroHealth, said, “This sculpture reminds us of our growing children and how all of us at MetroHealth are dedicated to having children blossom into their greatest potential.”