PatCH receives boost from Brumbies Sponsor

Paediatrics at The Canberra Hospital (PatCH) has received a boost following the donation of $54,000 from Brumbies Rugby Principal Partner, CA Pty Ltd (formerly known as Computer Associates).

Today the children’s ward unveiled 10 Pulse Oximeter Machines, used to monitor children’s oxygenation and pulse, which were purchased with the donation.

CA Brumbies’ Nic Henderson was on hand for the unveiling and to spend some time with PatCH’s patients.

Lisa Thorburn, Director of CA’s Federal region said that CA was pleased to provide the hospital with the much-needed equipment.

“We’re proud to be giving something back to the community, especially to a cause as worthwhile as PatCH,” she said. “Earlier this year we saw an opportunity to help these children and it’s been great to provide PatCH with some of the vital equipment it needs.”

Henderson said the donation continued the strong partnership between PatCH and the Brumbies.

“We’ve raised a significant amount of funds both through our sponsors’ generosity and by selling CA Brumbies ‘For the Kids’ wristbands,” he said.

“PatCH held our number one ticket this season and we’ve visited the children’s ward whenever time allows. I know that the players have enjoyed making themselves available to spend some time with the children.”

Professor Graham Reynolds, Director of PatCH, said the machines will help in the care of sick children.

“Typically these monitors are used to observe children admitted with respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, croup and asthma,” he said. “There is generally an increase in children presenting with these conditions during the colder months so the machines couldn’t come at a better time.”

The PatCH ward has been decorated in Brumbies colours and pictures, and patients will continue to receive visits from players throughout the year.