Foundation set $250k goal for Christmas appeal

THE Barwon Health Foundation is hopeful the Greater Geelong can dig deep and help them raise $250,000 during their Wish Upon A Star Christmas Appeal.

The annual fundraising drive will support the purchase of vital medical equipment to support sick children and babies in hospital.

Items on the wish list for 2024 include:

Emergency Infant Resuscitation Warmer

Paediatric Patient Central Monitoring System

Birthing Suite Fetal Monitors (four needed)

Birthing Suite Epidural Infusion Pumps (15 needed), and Maternity Colposcope

The appeal will assist families such as the Andersons, whose son Hamish was born at just 31 weeks’ gestation after an unexpected turn in the pregnancy.

Despite the early arrival, Hamish has received exceptional care in Barwon Health’s special care nursery.

His mother Tyla said staff continue to provide comfort and reassurance during this vulnerable time.

“It really has made the whole journey easier.

“Hamish has many milestones to reach, but we’re hoping and wishing to have him home for Christmas.”

Barwon Health Foundation executive director Zoe Waters said supporting the appeal would make a significant difference to the most vulnerable of patients.

“Among the items on our wish list is an infant resuscitation warmer, used in the critical first moments when babies arrive for care in the Emergency Department.

“In those moments, every second counts.”

The Wish Upon A Star Appeal will run until December 31.

Community can support through donations, purchasing a bauble on the virtual Christmas tree, volunteering as a gift wrapper or by purchasing Christmas puddings.

For more information, head to barwonhealthfoundation.org.au