As we celebrate the Queensland Children’s Hospital’s 10th birthday, we reflect on a decade of world-leading care and treatment for Queensland kids with cerebral palsy.
The generosity of our supporters over the years has been instrumental to countless success stories at Queensland Children’s Hospital – helping us to fund ground breaking research and transformative programs.
And this Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, we look back on these achievements for children with cerebral palsy.
Kids just like Aston.
From diagnosis to championship
At 12 months old, Aston was diagnosed with quadriplegia cerebral palsy – a condition that disrupts the brain’s ability to control movement in limbs and posture.
Aston’s treatment journey began at the Queensland Children’s Hospital 10 years ago and embodies the real-world impact of our research and care initiatives.
“Despite feeling extremely overwhelmed and nervous after Aston’s diagnosis, we were confident in the backing of Queensland Children’s Hospital’s amazing doctors,” Aston’s mum, Morgan recalled.
Dr Kim McLennan has been Aston’s rehabilitation specialist for a number of years. Together with other staff in the rehabilitation service, she been crucial in his care and the care of many other children with cerebral palsy at Queensland Children’s Hospital.
“The Queensland Paediatric Service (QPRS) has had dedicated services and programs for children living with cerebral for nearly 20 years. We work closely with young people and their families to ensure that each person receives the best evidenced-based care to achieve their goals and fulfil their potential,” Dr McLennan said.
It is people like Dr McLennan, regular hospital visits for specialised treatment and participation in innovate new therapy programs that have helped Aston continue to reach incredible milestones, including a recent bronze medal at State Championships for discus.
“With a newfound passion for sports leading him to compete in athletics, Aston is aiming high – continuing his frame running and training every Tuesday afternoon,” Morgan said.
A decade of making a difference
Aston is one of the 2,259 kids with cerebral palsy treated at the Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service since opening since the Queensland Children’s Hospital opened its doors in 2014.
And thanks to supporters like you, our investment across this past decade has enabled life changing projects for kids with cerebral palsy, just like the ‘Running for Health’ study.
Running for Health aims to improve cardiovascular health in children with cerebral palsy through frame running. With frame running included in the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships, the project highlights the importance of accessibility in athletics.
These initiatives are more than just research – it is a lifeline for families, offering improvements to their quality of life.
Advancing health outcomes for children with cerebral palsy
Thanks to our supporters, we have also committed over $5 million into the Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre (QCPRRC) since 2017.
Established to improve health outcomes for children with cerebral palsy and acquired brain injuries, QCPRRC provides cutting-edge research and innovative therapy programs that are driving advancements in treatment and care – becoming a beacon of hope for kids like Aston and their families.
Celebrating the future
Queensland children deserve access to the best healthcare.
The commitment of our supporters has not only helped to redefine what is possible for children with cerebral palsy, but given kids like Aston the opportunity to thrive.
As we look to the future, we are filled with determination to continue to support world-class care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital – inspired by the potential of what is yet to come.
The difference that shapes their world
Through supporting the Children’s Hospital Foundation, you can improve childhoods and ensure all children and young people have access to treatment - sooner.
