I wonder if fund raising is tipping the scales in favor of destroying the garden, since major donors are likely to want to see their name on a new building, not just on additional floors of an existing building. If so, how sad that they would choose a fleeting vanity over preserving the garden for future generations of very sick children. A garden is healing and comforting; terraces and roof gardens are only good for cocktail parties.

I am the mother of a cardiac patient saved at Children's and the aunt of a child who drowned, and died, despite all efforts of Children's wonderful medical professionals. I can say beyond any doubt, the Prouty Garden is essential to patients and families alike, for healing and just getting thru some of the worst moments of our lives.

In May, 1936 my family doctor picked me up and carried me to his car, drove me and my parents to Children's Hospital where I spent the next 360 days fighting osteomyelitis. On ward 5 I had view of a large green area surrounded by other buildings. How I missed home and family. In those days visitors were allowed 2-4pm on Saturdays only. That bit of green was my only connection with my former life. If I were a rich woman, Children's Hospital would figure largely in my will. TLC came from dedicated nurses and doctors. At 82, still remember the name of my operating surgeon,Dr. Green, and the resident dentist, oddly named Dr. Jump and my loving head nurse, Olga Barryman, and the lush, green lawn...oh, the comfort I derived from just a view of that lawn. Children's Hospital is a gem to be treasured by the world. But sometimes children value things far more than we adults can imagine. Please build up not out, if possible.

I vividly remember the worst week of my life when my only child was diagnosed with diabetes at age 17 months in June of that year. I also recall walking in that beautiful place with my wife and son and thinking: What a remarkable place! As a proud Bostonian and friend to Children's, please don't do this thing. There are buildings aplenty, find another solution. With respects to Cat Stevens, who goes by another name now: Well you've cracked the sky, scrapers fill the air. But will you keep on building higher 'til there's no more room up there? Will you make us laugh, will you make us cry? Will you tell us when to live, will you tell us when to die? I know we've come a long way, We're changing day to day, But tell me, where do the children play? Thanks, Brian! Another great piece! MW from the IR

Well said, and bless your beautiful words!

Amen, sister!