Community
27 July, 2024
$200,000 suite aims to ease pain of pregnancy loss
STUNNING artwork, comfort, and a private space have been offered by Cairns Hospital to families dealing with pregnancy loss as a result of community generosity.
Repainted in a gentle colour palette, the completely refurbished space was equipped with a shining mural, alongside various purpose-specific clinical equipment.
Allowing partners to stay and sleep in comfort with mum, the birthing bed has been replaced with a clinically-suitable double bed.
A collaboration between the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation and local businesses, artists and hospital staff, the $200,000 project’s funds were raised through donations from events and businesses, such as the 2023 Alive Pharmacy Warehouse Ride for Isabel, christmas wrapping at Cairns Central, Earlville Shopping Town and DFO Cairns, Nu Nu Restaurant's Melbourne Cup 2023 and KenFrost Homes.
Foundation chief executive officer Gina Hogan said funds were raised thanks to a generous community.
“Pregnancy loss is more common than we realise,” Mrs Hogan said. “Many of us know someone who has gone through this difficult time,” she said.
“By coming together as a community to contribute, we can make a truly special difference for those affected.”
Contributing artist Hayley Gillespie said the animals created for the maternity ward were riddled with hidden patterns, relating to their habitats or food sources.
“They have names reflecting their breeding, nesting and traits,” she said.
“These animal families represent the care and responsibility involved in mothers, parenting and community, the human experience of being part of the circle of life.”
