Petition to Reverse the Closure of Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children (PRHC)

We, the undersigned, express our deep concern regarding the decision to close Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children (PRHC), formerly known as the Massachusetts Hospital School, which has provided vital care to children and young adults with physical disabilities and medical conditions since its founding in 1904.

PRHC specializes in medical care and comprehensive rehabilitation services, offering on-site education through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. All students attend school on hospital grounds, integrating their education with medical and therapeutic care. In addition, PRHC offers essential recreational opportunities such as swimming, horseback riding, adaptive sports, and social activities that foster physical, emotional, and social growth.

Simply attempting to relocate these specialized services is not a viable solution. The care provided at PRHC—spanning medical treatment, therapies, education, peer interaction, and inclusion—cannot be replicated elsewhere. Building a 25 bed pediatric unit does not include all current patients at PRHC. Despite improved medical technologies that may or may not be there on move in day— will there also be a barn built for them for equine therapy? A heated pool for aquatics? A recreation center with adaptive games and sports? The countless therapies on site? An on site school complete with special education professionals from classroom education to lifeskills/transition? A library? A music room? Waterfront for accessible adaptive water sports? These children require a level of comprehensive care that only the layout at PRHC can provide. Why not take the budgeted dollars intended on building the pediatric wing in Western MA and utilize to update what you have deemed not functional. With appropriate funding PRHC can continue to be what it has been for 121 years. A place like no other that cannot be replicated or relocated.

Not to mention the proximity to Boston Hospitals from Canton is a lifeline.

Having grown up at PRHC in many roles—visitor, volunteer, camp counselor, and full-time employee—I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact this institution has on both its patients and staff. The dedication, compassion, and sense of community at PHRC are unmatched. The relationships formed here are life-changing, creating a support system that extends well beyond the walls of the hospital. Despite changing career paths I can assure you the impact this facility has not only on its adolescents that attend but the countless adults whose lives are forever changed for the better by being part of its history.

Closing PRHC is not just a loss of a healthcare facility, but the loss of a sanctuary where children find care, community, and hope. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The measure of society is how it treats its most vulnerable members.” By closing PHRC, you fail to live up to this ideal.

We urge the state and local government to reverse this decision and ensure that PRHC continues to provide the specialized care and support that these children and families need.

 
Call to Action:

We call on the state and local government officials to:

-Reverse the decision to close PRHC and secure its future.

-Recognize PRHCs critical role in providing medical care, education, and recreation to vulnerable children.

-Ensure that these children continue to receive the comprehensive care they deserve.