Our region’s littlest and bravest patients and their families will soon have a fully equipped, child-specific environment to receive care from the Toowoomba Hospital Paediatric Oncology team with thanks to overwhelming support from our community, raising $264,409.85 for the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s Christmas Appeal.

Each year Toowoomba Hospital Foundation launches its Toowoomba Hospital Christmas Appeal to raise funds for an area in the hospital most in need, whether it be life-saving medical equipment, upgrades to a current facility or service or to bring extra comfort to patients.

Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy said last year the Foundation kicked off their annual appeal with the launch of 100K in 100 Days inspired by the bravery of Karlie and Ellie Ross. “When we started our Appeal last year, we had absolutely no idea just how much of an impact Karlie and Ellie’s story would have in our community,” she said. “We set out to raise $100,000 and with your generosity we raised an incredible $264,409 in 100 days in support of upgrading the Toowoomba Hospital Paediatric Oncology service to create a welcoming space for children to receive cancer care away from adult patients.

“Thank you so much to everyone who donated, came along to an event, raised funds on our behalf and supported our Toowoomba Hospital Christmas Appeal – we are so grateful!” Last year’s Appeal all started with a wish list of recommendations from Karlie Ross, Mum of two-year-old cancer patient Ellie, and other parents of children undergoing cancer treatment at Toowoomba Hospital.

Ms Ross said it was amazing to see the community come out in support of children diagnosed with cancer. “It shows the heart of a community when we set out to fund a change table and yet managed to raise over $250,000,” she said. “As a family, we are deeply grateful for the generosity of every person who contributed to the campaign, including those who organised and attended events that benefitted the Toowoomba Hospital Christmas Appeal. Families facing childhood cancer spend lengthy periods of time in hospital so this money will make a significant impact in upgrading our services and helping make our local hospital feel more like home.”

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