Hospital appeal for saving lives

GRAMPIANS Health has launched its ‘give local, for care, close to home’ tax appeal which will support the purchase of priority medical equipment.

The launch took place in the Ballarat Base Hospital’s cardiac catheterisation lab where a mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation machine, which was purchased because of fundraising, was demonstrated.

The services of Grampians Health extend throughout the Ballarat and Western District regions providing prenatal care, dental services, mental health support, cardiology, cancer treatment, a range of allied health services, aged care, palliative care, and emergency and surgical care.

Chief medical officer, Matthew Hadfield said community donations are important to public health services.

“While our staff are experts in their fields, getting access to the latest equipment and technology is incredibly expensive,” he said.

“Fundraising allows us to provide a better and wider range of services for more people.

“This leads to better outcomes for our patients and allows us to deliver the best possible healthcare, close to people’s homes.”

David Fraser, who recently won the men’s over 60 division of the inaugural Ballarat Marathon, had a heart attack two years ago and thought he would never run again.

He received CPR for 40 minutes before being transported to Ballarat Base Hospital and received three stents to remove blockages in his heart.

Mr Fraser said his recovery is due to the work of Grampians Health staff as well as the support of family and friends.

“We were so grateful to be able to receive treatment and start my rehabilitation close to home,” he said.

“If I wanted to return to any form of physical activity, I needed to complete the rehabilitation program at the Base to get permission to return to work and the gym.

“If I had needed to travel for my rehabilitation, I doubt I would have been able to complete it.”

To make a tax deductable donation to this year’s appeal, visit ghb-tax-appeal-2024.raiselysite.com