Summary
Emerald Hospital’s palliative care patients now have access to a comfortable space for their end-of-life care, thanks to a big donation from Kestrel Coal Resources.
Nurse Unit Manager Julie Millson is proud to have this service available, after a long planning period.
“Our staff have always provided compassionate care to ensure a patient has access to treatment that respects their wishes, but this new space will make a huge difference to the comfort of both patients and loved ones during this difficult time.”
The new room has been decorated with a sunflower theme and is known as the Sunflower Room.
It has a large bed that is suitable for patients’ partners to sleep with their loved one, and many other comfort features designed to make the space brighter, more appealing and less clinical.
“Because we’re fairly isolated out here on the Central Highlands there hasn’t really been anything like this, so it’s such an important service to offer, especially to young people with cancer,” Julie said.
“Thanks to a $20,000 grant from Kestrel we’ve been able to buy this special bed, a fold-out sleep couch, fall-out chair, coffee machine, diffusers, a stereo system, movies and audio books to suit all ages.
“We’ve also had staff donate soft furnishings featuring sunflowers to create a bright space.
“The room also has a veranda with sitting area, and easy access to the tearoom for families to use.
“We’re so grateful to Kestrel for supporting the Emerald community through this grant.”