Hyundai Australia’s Help For Kids foundation donates equipment to Townsville Hospital

Townsville’s youngest patients are set to benefit from a huge donation of vital equipment to the children’s oncology ward and paediatric intensive care unit at Townsville University Hospital.

Nurse unit manager Michelle Clark, Clinical nurse consultant Phillip Mauger, Dealer Principal at Pickerings Hyundai Townsville Jaret Grant and Regional General Manager Hyundai Michael Torrisi. Picture by Nikita McGuire

A significant donation of equipment for the children’s oncology ward and paediatric intensive care unit at the Townsville University Hospital will assist doctors and nurses as they aim to treat newborns, children and teenagers.

The donation of several fit-for-purpose chairs and an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine, thanks to Hyundai Australia’s foundation Help For Kids, are welcome additions, with staff grateful for the support.

Since 2014, a portion of every Hyundai sold goes towards the foundation who support a range of not-for-profit organisations, with more than $13 million contributed.

Nursing Director Katrina Roberts said the donation will go a long way to help sick kids and their families.

“Parents can spend hours on end in the children’s oncology ward with their child while receiving care and these chairs will help make their stay more comfortable,” she said.

Townsville University Hospital: Picture: Evan Morgan

“The chairs had to meet certain requirements, including being able to be cleaned to a hospital-grade standard, provide all-day comfort for parents and children, and breastfeeding friendly.”

She said the chairs have already been put to use, with parents giving positive feedback.

Regional general manager for Hyundai Australia Michael Torrisi said he, along with local dealer principal of Pickerings Hyundai Townsville Jaret Grant, were proud to be part of making a change to the lives of young people suffering illness.

“Our part is small, but we also understand the impact our help makes and this is why our foundation Help For Kids exists,” he said.

“Healthcare is extremely important to Hyundai along with making a real difference in the community.”

Originally published as Hyundai Australia’s Help For Kids foundation donates equipment to Townsville Hospital