An Evening of Art and Healing: Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance Hosts Fundraiser for Gaylord Hospital

WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT, May 14, 2025 — In a celebration of creativity, community, and compassion, Gaylord Specialty Healthcare recently partnered with the Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) to host an exclusive evening dedicated to the healing power of art.

Held at the BACA Gallery, guests had the opportunity to view and contribute to the acquisition of beautiful artwork and sculptures selected for installation at Gaylord Hospital and its outpatient locations throughout Connecticut. The pieces are intended to improve the care experience by transforming clinical spaces into calming, restorative environments for patients, families, and staff.

Research shows that incorporating visual art into healthcare environments can significantly reduce stress and anxiety while improving mood. Studies have found that nature-inspired or emotionally engaging artwork can enhance healing by promoting a sense of calm and comfort.

“At Gaylord, we’re focused on caring for the whole person: mind, body, and spirit,” said Sonja LaBarbera, President and CEO of Gaylord Specialty Healthcare. “Through this collaboration with BACA and the generosity of our donors, we’re able to bring peace, beauty, and inspiration into our healing spaces. We’re truly grateful.”

For more information on how to support Gaylord Specialty Healthcare, visit gaylord.org.

About Gaylord Specialty Healthcare:
Gaylord Specialty Healthcare is a rehabilitation-focused, nonprofit health system headquartered in Wallingford, Connecticut, that provides inpatient and outpatient care for people at every point in their journey from illness or injury to maximum recovery.

Gaylord Specialty Healthcare is anchored by Gaylord Hospital, a long-term acute care hospital, and includes Gaylord Outpatient Services and Gaylord Physical Therapy for patients who require diagnosis and treatment on an outpatient basis. Gaylord's Milne Institute for Healthcare Innovation is a hub for accelerating world-class rehabilitative research, technology development and innovation to improve the quality of life and function of people around the world. Together, these entities deliver a complete continuum of rehabilitative care driven by clinical experience, innovation and human compassion.