For Nathan Andrew, a clinical nurse who has dedicated 25 years to Redcliffe Hospital, including two decades in palliative care, supporting patients and families at life’s most difficult moments is more than a job - it’s a privilege.
“I’ve always believed every patient and every family deserves comfort and dignity at end of life,” Nathan said.
That’s why he’s encouraging the community to get behind Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day on 21 May - a chance to help raise comfort and dignity for patients when it matters most.
Every donation made from now until Giving Day will be doubled by generous Impact Partners, helping to raise vital funds for patient comfort, staff wellbeing, medical research and enhanced experiences across Redcliffe Hospital for local families.
To donate or learn more, visit raiseitforredcliffe.com.au.
“You see the weight lift off people’s shoulders when they come into our care. We support the whole family, not just the patient,” Nathan said.
Throughout his time at Redcliffe Hospital, Nathan has seen firsthand how community generosity has helped transform the Palliative Care Unit into a more welcoming and supportive space for families.
“Now families can come together; kids have a place to play, and people can just be together, which makes such a difference,” he said.
“The improved spaces allow families to create meaningful moments, even in the toughest times.”
Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Manager, Sharyn Tidswell said Giving Day played a vital role in making these improvements possible.
“These are the moments people never forget. The tough goodbyes, the time spent together, and the care and support when it matters most,” Sharyn said.
“Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day is an opportunity for our community to come together and help raise comfort, raise dignity and raise what matters most.”
Nathan said the impact of donations reached far beyond a single patient.
“We care for around 500 patients each year, and over time that’s thousands of families supported,” he said.
“This isn’t just helping one person, it’s helping our whole community, now and into the future.”
Nathan’s daughter Kate has begun her own career in palliative care, inspired by the compassion and care she saw in her father growing up.
“From a young age, I always looked up to Dad - making a difference in people’s lives and being part of their story,” Kate said.
Her passion was cemented during a clinical placement, leading her to follow the same path.
Nathan said seeing his daughter choose a career in palliative care was deeply meaningful.
“Palliative care is a privilege to work in. Knowing Kate has chosen it because she wants to make a difference for patients and their families makes me incredibly proud,” he said.
Nathan has a simple message for those considering supporting Giving Day, which will help fund further improvements to Redcliffe Hospital’s Palliative Care:
“Do it. What you give today will make a difference when it matters most.”
The community is encouraged to support Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day on 21 May, with every donation doubled by generous Impact Partners to make twice the impact.
To donate or learn more, visit raiseitforredcliffe.com.au.
Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital is an initiative of the RBWH Foundation in partnership with Redcliffe Hospital. All funds raised support Redcliffe Hospital. For more information visit: www.raiseitforredcliffe.com.au
