Raising the bar for Easter joy.
- Perth Children's Hospital Foundation
Raising the bar for Easter joy.
- Perth Children's Hospital Foundation
This Easter, WA kids at Perth Children’s Hospital got a high-flying surprise – Olympic and World Champion pole vaulter Nina Kennedy dropped in to lift spirits.
It was all part of the ninth annual Bun Day, a heartwarming tradition brought to life by Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation (PCHF) and Coles, delivering Easter treats and joy to more than 200 young patients.
Among them was 6-year-old Maddie, who’s spent over six months in hospital battling a serious bowel obstruction caused by cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system.
After multiple surgeries – including removal of much of her small intestine – and a tough battle with severe sepsis, Maddie is still on the road to recovery, facing many more months of treatment ahead.
However, Maddie was all smiles when it came to meeting Nina, who dropped by with a special friend, Stitches the Bear, PCHF’s beloved mascot.
“It’s really important, it shows the kids that just because they’re in hospital they’re not forgotten about,” said Mary, Maddie’s mum. “Maddie’s case is very unique, there is unfortunately no straightforward answer. Every step we take is an investigation towards a positive outcome.”
Mary said it was ‘bittersweet’ that events like Bun Day existed but was grateful that it brought some enjoyment into the kids’ lives.
Also starstruck was PCHF Ambassador Olivia, who met her hero, Nina. Olivia is a rising star in framerunning, and recently set a national record, took state gold, and nailed a new personal best in the 100m. Her dream? Representing Australia at the Paralympics.
“It was inspiring to meet and hear about Nina’s journey to get to the Olympics. It’s given me the drive and motivation to reach my goal,” said Olivia.
Together with Coles, PCHF spearheaded the delivery of 2,200 award-winning hot cross buns, 500 chocolate Easter eggs, and plenty of fresh fruit across the hospital – with the help of an amazing bunch of PCH and Coles volunteers, who added a sprinkle of joy to Easter for many families on the wards.
Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Carrick Robinson said, “As the state’s specialist children’s healthcare charity, the Foundation is committed to ensuring that every child at PCH has access to world-class care and the support they need during challenging times.”
“Holidays are a time for connection, and on Bun Day, we’re reminded of the power that moments of joy have in creating positive patient experiences for WA’s sickest kids. Thanks to the incredible support of Coles, we’re able to bring these moments of happiness and normalcy to young patients and their families, making sure no one misses out on these special Easter traditions, even while undergoing treatment.”
Want to make a difference for kids like Maddie and Olivia?
Head to pchf.org.au/donate to support ground-breaking research, world-class expertise, advanced equipment and technology, innovative education and training programs or positive patient and family experiences, like Bun Day.
