Monday 1 August 2016

Southland patient the face of Countdown Kids 10th Hospital Appeal

Southland Hospital staff and patients will be celebrating the launch of the Countdown Kids 10th Hospital Appeal tomorrow, with Southland patient Liam Parsons the face of the campaign this year.

Liam who suffers from a respiratory condition has benefitted first hand from the Appeal. His condition has seen him being admitted to Southland Hospital Children’s Ward several times over the past year for respiratory distress.

Southern DHB has been able to buy lots of the equipment which Liam relies upon with the funds from previous appeals. He’s spent most of his time in Room 5 using equipment purchased from the funds, including high-flow oxygen, heart and oxygen monitors.

Liam’s parents are extremely grateful to Countdown Supermarkets for the funding they have provided to supply the equipment that helped Liam recover.

Liam’s mum Tanya says “We live rurally, one hour away from Southland Hospital, and being able to stay with Liam in his room for the entirety of his stay was immensely appreciated. Despite the 24/7 monitors, oxygen mask, medication and even the IV line, Liam actually enjoys his hospital stays and sometimes says he wants to get sick again so he can return to play with the Children’s Ward toys!”

Launching at Southland Hospital on 2 August, Countdown stores will be working alongside their local children’s wards to host fundraising activities. From selling cheese rolls to hosting cake stalls, hundreds of Countdown and hospital ward staff will be rallying the Southland community to support the Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal.

Southern DHB’s Nurse Manager; Women's and Children's Services: Older Persons Health, Clinical Support and Community Directorates (Southland) Cherie Meulenbroek, says the service is delighted that Southland has again been chosen as a recipient of the fundraising venture.

“We’re very grateful to be part of the Appeal. The DHB has been able to purchase a range of amazing equipment using the funds raised which helps children like Liam by improving their stay in hospital. The donations have made such a difference and the contribution is invaluable,” she said.

The Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal has raised over $553,000 for Southland Hospital since it began 10 years ago through country wide fundraising activities.

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