Ipswich Hospital Foundation (IHF) has launched a Children’s Christmas Appeal to raise funds for purchasing much-needed equipment for the resuscitation area in Ipswich Hospital’s Special Care Nursery.
Ipswich Hospital Director of Paediatrics Dr. John Waugh said more than 3000 babies were born at Ipswich Hospital in the past 12 months, and one in four of those babies spent time in the Special Care Nursery.
“Of these 785 newborns, 210 were born prematurely, and many families had to travel to a more specialised hospital for extra care outside the West Moreton region,” Dr. Waugh said.
“Our Special Care Nursery provides specialised care for many premature or ill babies. However, this additional resuscitation equipment will help us to respond to the growing needs in our region and improve functionality.
“We want to provide the babies born at Ipswich Hospital with the care and equipment they require here, so fewer babies need to travel for specialist medical care outside the region.”
IHF CEO Scott Young said they aimed to raise $150,000 for the Special Care Nursery.
“All funds raised will go towards equipment including cardiac monitors, a resuscitation cot, and humidifiers for respiratory support for newborns. This equipment will work in conjunction with the equipment already used in the special care nursery enabling more babies born in the region with unexpected medical issues to be able to stay here to receive the care they need.
“You can show your support by making a tax-deductible cash donation or purchasing a raffle ticket through our website. Your donation will make a huge difference to local families, allowing them to get the best possible care closer to home.” Mr. Young said.
To learn more about the IHF Children’s Christmas Appeal or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit https://christmas.ihfoundation.org.au/ .
