Hospital opens new-look unit

Karen Wilson has honoured her father’s memory by returning to Redcliffe Hospital for the official opening of the refurbished palliative care unit.

Twenty-five years ago Karen said goodbye to Derek at the unit, but was struck by the compassion, dignity and care her family received.

On Tuesday, she joined Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital supporters, Impact and Community Partners, patient ambassadors, hospital executives and staff to celebrate the palliative care unit’s refurbished lounge, garden courtyard and children's play area.

"Like so many families, we entered the world of palliative care with uncertainty, fear and grief," Karen said, "but what we found here was something extraordinary.

“Not just a place with walls and equipment, but one where kindness, compassion, dignity and respect truly matter."

The Palliative Care project was supported by Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital, an initiative with the RBWH Foundation, including its annual Giving Day, next month.

Giving Day, on May 21, will help raise comfort, research and wellbeing for patients and families across the Moreton Bay region.

"Dad always loved his garden. Some of my most special memories are sitting outside together, sharing stories and laughter," said Karen, a passionate Raise it for Redcliffe supporter.

“These spaces matter more than words express. When a community comes together through kindness, donations or showing up, extraordinary things become possible.”

Executive Director of Redcliffe Hospital Cang Dang said palliative care is an “incredibly important service in any hospital and the team here at Redcliffe do extraordinary work every day”.

“They support patients and families through a very difficult and challenging journey, but it's a time when families come together, say goodbye and recognise what matters most,” he said.

"This project has only been possible through the goodwill, generosity and support of our community and Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital partners. We are incredibly grateful.”

Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager Kim Shesgreen, who has cared for Moreton Bay families for 25 years, highlighted the importance of environment.

"Sometimes people want to be at home and that's not always possible. So being able to create a space that feels more like home, even for a short time, is incredibly important,” she said.

"The changes have made a real difference. They've created warm, welcoming spaces where families spend time together and even for a moment, not feel they're in a hospital."

State Member for Redcliffe Kerri-Anne Dooley officially opened the spaces and said her connection to Redcliffe Hospital is “deeply personal”.

“I began my nursing career here in palliative care, my family has been cared for here and my daughter works here,” she said.

"Hearing patients feel more like they're in a home than a hospital, that's exactly what we want. That's the difference these spaces make."

During the event, guests received a symbolic butterfly which represented remembrance, comfort and ongoing care these spaces will provide.

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