Hospital salutes da Vinci donors

ST JOHN of God (SJoG) Bendigo Hospital has officially unveiled its new Robot Donor Honour Board, recognising the individuals, families, businesses and community partners whose support helped bring Bendigo its first da Vinci Xi surgical robot.

The Honour Board is a permanent tribute to the fundraising effort that raised $2.85 million in a quick-fire nine months, enabling the hospital to establish a regional robotics program that has already delivered 182 cases, including a significant proportion of public patients.

SJoG director of business development Anna Hill, who led the campaign, said the reveal was about recognising both gratitude and impact.

“We’re here to thank our donors and sponsors for making this possible and to acknowledge what their support is already delivering for patients across our region,” she said.

Ms Hill also highlighted the benefits of robotic surgery for patients requiring procedures for prostate, kidney, lung and colorectal cancers, as well as complex gynaecological surgeries, including smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery.

CEO Michael Hogan said the honour board reflects what can be achieved when a community comes together with purpose, and acknowledged those who helped establish the robotics program.

“Our Robot Donor Honour Board (is) a permanent tribute to the individuals, families, and organisations who made this possible,” he said.

“It’s a symbol of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose.”

Mr Hogan also noted the hospital’s resultant growing surgical capability, supported by a dedicated robotics team and technology partners.