Twenty-five years ago, Karen Wilson said goodbye to her father Derek in Redcliffe Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit. The compassion, dignity and care her family received during that time left a lasting impression and this week, Karen returned to the hospital to honour his memory.
On Tuesday 31 March 2026, Karen joined Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital supporters, Impact and Community Partners, patient ambassadors, hospital executives and staff to celebrate the official opening of the Palliative Care Unit’s newly refurbished lounge, garden courtyard and children’s play area.
“Like so many families, we entered the world of palliative care with uncertainty, fear and grief,” Karen said.
“But what we found here was something extraordinary. Not just a place with walls and equipment, but one where kindness, compassion, dignity and respect truly matter.”
The Palliative Care project demonstrates the important difference local community can make through supporting Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital, including their annual Giving Day.
Karen has since become a passionate supporter of Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital, contributing to the refurbishment and encouraging others to give back.
“Dad always loved his garden. Some of my most special memories are sitting outside together, sharing stories and laughter,” she said.
“These spaces matter more than words can express. They provide comfort, connection and a sense of calm when families need it most.”
“Palliative care is an incredibly important service in any hospital, and the team here at Redcliffe do extraordinary work every day,” Mr Dang said.
“They support patients and families through what can be a very difficult and challenging journey, but it’s a time when families come together, say goodbye and recognise what matters most.
“This project has only been possible through the goodwill, generosity and support of our community and Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital partners. We are incredibly grateful for the difference this will make for families now and into the future.”
Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager Kim Shesgreen, who has cared for Moreton Bay families for 25 years, said the impact is already being felt.
“The environment we care for patients in plays a bigger role than people often realise,” Ms Shesgreen said.
“Our team works every day to provide not just clinical care, but personalised, patient-centred care, focusing on what matters most to each person and their family.
“Sometimes people want to be at home, and that’s not always possible. So being able to create a space that feels more like home, even for a short time, is incredibly important.
“The changes have made a real difference. They’ve created warm, welcoming spaces where families can spend time together and, even just for a moment, not feel like they’re in a hospital.
“I think that’s a really special gift to be able to give people.”
The project also marks more than 25 years of Redcliffe Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit supporting local families, with the new spaces making a meaningful difference for patients, including those spending time with children and grandchildren in the dedicated play area and garden.
State Member for Redcliffe, Kerri-Anne Dooley, officially opened the spaces, which are designed to raise comfort, raise connection and raise dignity for patients and their families during life’s most difficult moments.
“This is what the power of community looks like. People coming together to create something truly meaningful for patients and families,” Ms Dooley said.
“My connection to Redcliffe Hospital is deeply personal. I began my nursing career here in palliative care, my family has been cared for here, and now my daughter works here too.
“For so many of us, Redcliffe Hospital is the beating heart of our community, where life begins, where life ends, and where families are supported through it all.
“Hearing that patients feel more like they’re in a home than a hospital, that’s exactly what we want. That’s the difference these spaces make.”
During the event, guests received a symbolic butterfly which represented remembrance, comfort and the ongoing care these spaces will provide for future generations.
“The butterfly is a symbol of transformation and the journey from life to death. Here in palliative care, the goal is to make that journey as peaceful and comfortable as possible for every person and their family,” said Ms Dooley.
“These spaces show what community support looks like in action and why Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day on 21 May is so important to continue this impact.”
