CHILDREN receiving treatment at Coffs Harbour Health Campus will soon benefit from a new specialised chair thanks to a $7500 donation raised through the annual Coffs Harbour Running Festival.
The funds, part of a broader community effort led by the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour, will support the hospital’s new Paediatric Ambulatory Care Service (PACS), with a focus on improving the experience for paediatric patients who require regular infusions and procedures.
“This chair is designed with children in mind – it provides comfort, safety and a sense of calm during what can be a very stressful time for young patients and their families,” Paediatric Ward Nurse Unit Manager Lisa Hammond said.
“We are so very grateful to be able to order our bright orange chairs to bring a sense of colour and happiness to what can be challenging times for paediatric patients.”
The chair will be used in the newly established PACS where children will undergo treatments such as intravenous antibiotics, blood transfusions and other therapies that require them to remain seated and under observation for extended periods.
“Having a purpose-built chair for these procedures means we can deliver care in a way that’s less clinical and more compassionate,” VMO Paediatrician and Paediatric Head of Department Dr Stephanie White said.
“It helps reduce anxiety, especially for our youngest patients, and supports a more positive hospital experience.”
Event Director Keelan Birch told News Of The Area that the donation is part of the Coffs Harbour Running Festival’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the local community.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the Coffs Harbour Running Festival making a tangible difference in our local community once again.
“Knowing that funds from this year’s event are helping the Coffs Campus Children’s Ward purchase a new comfort chair, something that will directly support children and their families during hospital stays, really brings home why we do what we do.
“The community spirit that drives our participants, volunteers and sponsors each year, is what makes outcomes like this possible, and I couldn’t be prouder of everyone involved.”
By Andrea FERRARI
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