Fun on wheels for little patients

A new distraction trolley is proving a hit with Redcliffe Hospital’s youngest patients, including seven-year-old Myles Edwards and his six-year-old sister Darcey, thanks to the extraordinary power of giving on last year’s Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day.

The trolley was one of many projects funded by the more than $220,000 raised.

Mother Emma Edwards says the trolley was just what the doctor ordered for sick and injured children and their families.

“When you’re at hospital, it’s already an extremely stressful situation and you are usually there because you’re worried about your child,” Emma says.

“You’re trying to keep them distracted from their sickness, trying to make it as positive an experience as possible, and having distraction tools is fantastic.”

Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day is the main fundraising event for Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital, a partnership between the RBWH Foundation and Redcliffe Hospital.

All money raised will support innovative patient care projects, life-changing health research and other hospital initiatives.

The main focus of this year’s Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day, on October 12, is a renovation of the hospital’s Palliative Care Unit loungeroom and courtyard.

RBWH Foundation CEO Simone Garske says: “Every year, about 600 patients with a life-limiting illness are cared for in the Palliative Care Unit.

“The unit provides a welcoming refuge when patients are unable to be cared for at home and visits by family and friends are really important.

“We would love to enhance that experience by providing a fresh new look in the common areas.”

Every donation received by Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day will be doubled by Giving Day Impact Partners. Donate online at redcliffegivingday.com.au

Community fundraising events area already underway, so keep up to date with the latest events by following the Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Facebook page.

“It’s so heartening and gratifying to witness the level of community support and leadership of local business,” Simone says.

“If it weren’t for community partners like GKS Law, Ballycara, Crew Legal, Dynamic Bradview Roofing, Lewis Leisure (The Komo and The Belvedere), Holistic Horizons Support Services, Team Musicare, RAMS Home Loans Moreton, Redcliffe RSL, The Rotary Club of Redcliffe Sunrise, Dolphins NRL, My Care Enterprises, Electronic and Mechanical Calibrations, Sandgate Post Office Hotel, Lumber of Love, Redcliffe District Local Medical Association, Marendy Medical, Bunnings and many more individuals and groups, Raise it for Redcliffe could not achieve the successes and triumphs it has.”