San Antonio Zoo Brings ‘Wild New View’ to Methodist Children’s Hospital

SAN ANTONIO — Patients at Methodist Children’s Hospital got a wild surprise Thursday as San Antonio Zoo brought animal ambassadors and mascot Savanna to the hospital for a special visit celebrating the growing collaboration between the two San Antonio organizations.

The Sept. 17 event included the unveiling of a miniature model highlighting a new San Antonio Zoo banner installed on the Methodist Children’s Tower.

The celebration marks the latest milestone in the partnership between Methodist Healthcare and San Antonio Zoo, which began nearly a year ago with the launch of the Methodist Healthcare Health Walk at the Zoo.

The scenic, mile-long route encourages families to stay active while exploring the zoo and connecting with nature and wildlife.

“Collaborations like this are extremely meaningful to our efforts in caring for our patients and those we serve,” said Rachel Goldsmith, CEO of Methodist Children’s Hospital. “It’s a privilege to care for our community in ways beyond medicine. Sometimes, a moment of joy while in our care can become a lasting memory to cherish for our patients and their families.”

Following the unveiling, Savanna made her way through the hospital to visit pediatric patients in their rooms.

Hospital officials said experiences like these can provide children with a welcome break from their normal hospital routine, giving them an opportunity to laugh, play and simply enjoy being kids.

One mother previously described similar activities during her daughter’s hospitalization as an opportunity to see her daughter as a “healthy child” again rather than only as a patient receiving hospital care.

While providing high-quality and compassionate medical care remains the hospital’s priority, Methodist Children’s Hospital said creating joyful experiences for young patients is also an important part of supporting children and their families.

“Our community is at its best when we show up for each other,” said Tim Morrow, president and CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Today was about the patients and their families, but it was also about celebrating the staff who pour everything they have into caring for them.”

Morrow added that the zoo is grateful for opportunities to connect people with wildlife while bringing some of the San Antonio Zoo experience directly to patients, families and healthcare workers.

Methodist Healthcare and San Antonio Zoo say they plan to continue finding ways to promote the health and well-being of San Antonio families, whether they are spending the day exploring the zoo or receiving care at the hospital.