In support of parents facing the heartbreaking journey of paediatric palliative care, Centennial Park has made a generous donation to ensure that no parent walks this difficult path alone.
The donation will go towards the Paediatric Palliative Care Mentoring Program led by Dr Mary Cossich, a specialist paediatric care physician at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
The project was created in direct response to the overwhelming emotional and social isolation often experienced by parents caring for a child with a life-limiting illness.
Drawing from her own research and experience in this field, Dr Cossich has developed a model that pairs parents currently navigating paediatric palliative care with trained, lived-experience peer mentors.
The impact of this program has already been invaluable for parents. It encourages social connections, reduces feelings of isolation and supports mental wellbeing.
For both current and bereaved parents, the opportunity to speak with someone who truly understands their journey can help ease the burden for such a difficult time.
“For families caring for a child with life-limiting illness, it can be an overwhelming, scary and lonely experience,” Dr Cossich said.
“Paediatric palliative care provides a team network of expertise and support throughout this journey for children and families.”
The donation will help in developing and publishing a comprehensive report outlining Dr Cossich’s research findings, best practices and recommendations for future delivery.
Most importantly, this funding will help transition the project from a successful pilot into a fully established, ongoing support service for families in need.
Centennial Park Chief Executive Officer Nadia Anjelkovic said: “We are proud to support causes and groups who provide much needed services to South Australians.”
“Centennial Park is committed to support the wellbeing of our community.”
This donation has been proudly facilitated through The Hospital Research Foundation Group. Thanks to Centennial Park’s support, the program is now one step closer to becoming a lasting resource for families not only at the WCH, but across the country.
If you would like to donate towards a specific project like this, reach out to our friendly team on (08) 8244 1100 or email [email protected]
