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Charlotte, N.C. -- When families of hospice patients are consumed with the pain and focus of caring for their loved ones, what can a hospital do to help these caregivers collect their thoughts during a time stricken with grief? Thanks to the vision of widow Linda Matney, the Presbyterian Hospital Courtyard will soon be home to the Jack Matney Memorial Labyrinth - a place of peace to comfort patients and their families during their time in the hospital.

A labyrinth combines the imagery of the circle and the spiral into a meandering but purposeful course. Walking a labyrinth has been effective in reducing anxiety, lowering blood pressure and breathing rates, in addition to reducing chronic pain. Often people find peace, solace, release and a deep sense of joy as they reach the center of the labyrinths circuitous paths. Architect Tom Schultz, nationally known for his unique labyrinth designs, has patterned the Jack Matney Memorial Labyrinth after the 14th Century labyrinth at Chatres Cathedral in France.

According to Linda Matney, donor and founder of the Jack and Linda Matney Family Foundation, "My impetus in creating the labyrinth was to have something nearby to give families and caregivers the opportunity to focus on a spiritual connection, prayer or whatever could bring peace to each person."

Made possible by generous donations, on May 15, the one-year anniversary of Jack Matney's death, a groundbreaking and dedication will be held to kickoff the transformation of what was once a smoking courtyard into a place of quiet meditation. The event will begin at 2 p.m. and will include guest speakers and music.

Linda Matney, Presbyterian Hospice and Palliative Care and Presbyterian Hospital are proud to be hosts of this new opportunity to share a moment of tranquility with families and loved ones of patients in the hospital. According to Matney,"I knew something good could come out of such pain. The new labyrinth will provide a point of focus to help people collect their thoughts during the grieving process."