Armidale digs deep for palliative care comforts
1 September 2009
In November 2008, the Armidale residents dug deep into their pockets for Armidale Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit and now patients and families are reaping the benefits of that generosity.
Two rooms on the ward have been refurbished with a number of items including eight televisions, two electric beds, two recliners, two bar fridges and a dining room table with four chairs purchased from $20,000 raised at the Viennese Gala Charity Ball.
Nursing Unit Manager Anna Keys said that you can see the refurbishment of the rooms had made a big difference to patients and their families.
“The electric beds have a pressure reduction mattress that’s much more comfortable for the patients,” Anna said. “Having televisions in each room also adds some stimulation.”
“Family members are often visiting their loved ones for long periods of time, so the recliner chairs and bar fridge bring some comfort during those extended visits.
“Even the little things make a difference - like the curtains for instance, they make the rooms are much brighter.
“The generosity of the fundraising group is something we’ve all been touched by.”
Convenor of the Armidale Charity Dance Group Mick Blenman said that the donation was something the community should be proud of.
“This all started with one lady who had a dream, she wanted to do something for people with cancer so we started a committee and it went from there,” Mr Blenman said.
Mr Blenman has been to the hospital and seen the finished product from the money raised at the ball.
“I’m a pretty hard man but I even had tears in my eyes when I walked into the ward,” he said.
“I know people who have been in the ward since its refurbishment and they’re appreciative of what’s been done.
“We’ve done something great for the town - it’s no surprise though, when it comes down to the local economy or helping other people in the town everyone gets behind the cause.”
Given the success of the ball and the refurbishment to the palliative care ward, Mr Blenman is planning another charity ball to be held in late 2010.
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767