Surgical robot funding drive gains momentum

ROBOTIC surgical technology for St John of God Bendigo Hospital is one step closer following a successful fundraising lunch earlier this month.

The city’s business community has been rallying to support the push to raise $2 million for a da Vinci Xi surgical robot.

Guided by surgeons, the device enables minimally invasive surgery and helps achieve shorter hospital stays, less scarring, fewer complications and faster patient recovery after a procedure.

The da Vinci Xi will boost the hospital’s capabilities for prostate, colorectal and thoracic surgery as well as for renal and gynaecological procedures.

Bendigo Ford was major sponsor of the event, held at Mackenzie Quarters, with Bendigo Bank, WIN Television and the Bendigo Art Gallery Cafe also represented.

Guests witnessed the machine in operation during a display by medical technology company Device Technologies.

They also heard from St John of God chief medical officer Dr Luis Prado, urological surgeon Associate Professor Janelle Brennan and a former patient who has benefited from the technology, Julius Porlai.

Marketing and business development manager Anna Hill said she was “overwhelmed” with how the community had responded.

“It’s exciting to see the momentum building and the shared commitment that everybody has to achieve this vision,” Ms Hill said.

“The da Vinci Xi is a breakthrough in surgical technology that will enable high-precision cancer surgery for patients in Bendigo and the region without the need to travel to Melbourne.

“Every dollar that’s donated will enable us to innovate and improve our community’s care.”

The St John of God Foundation was represented by chief executive Bianca Pietralla, community engagement director Rachel Bruechle and director of philanthropy Preema Wong.

Officials from various Bendigo businesses and government, council and medical sectors were also present.

Donations to the fundraising campaign can be made at sjogfoundation.org.au/donate-bendigo or by calling the St John of God Foundation on 1800 281 288.