Over one week of celebrations, the Children’s Hospital Foundation helped deliver more than 1,198 moments of joy and connection to patients and families – proving that even in hospital, kids can still be kids.
This year’s National Families Week brought energy, colour and fun to every corner and corridor of Queensland Children’s Hospital, reminding us all of the impact of play and distraction.
Creating moments that matter
National Families Week kicked off with a burst of music and smiles as young patients and their families were treated to uplifting performances by talented local musicians Maddi Clarke and Nathan Eggins. Their roaming live sets filled the hospital with energy, giving children the chance to disconnect from the reality of their treatment – even just for a little while.
As the week continued, so did excitement levels with surprise visits from beloved characters Bluey and Bingo, who danced and skipped throughout the wards. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles delivered high-fives and ninja moves to enthusiastic fans. Even the Ghostbusters gang made an appearance, complete with their proton packs.
Adding to the magic were five interactive experiences designed to engage, calm and inspire. Children cuddled animals at our petting zoo, shared special moments with therapy dogs, got up close with reptiles from Lone Pine and were surprised by the appearance of a real-life unicorn.
Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice described the week as one of the most meaningful and anticipated events in the Foundation’s calendar.
“What we see during National Families Week is the incredible power of joy for patients, families and staff at Queensland Children’s Hospital,” Ms Rice said.
“These experiences remind families that there can still be moments of joy throughout their child’s treatment – that the community is behind them – and that even in hospital, there is still space for positive memories,” she added.
A thrilling celebration of family, connection and resilience
The week wrapped up with an unforgettable adventure – one that took joy to new heights (quite literally). On the final day of National Families Week, the Foundation whisked 106 patients, siblings, and parents away to Movie World for a day to remember.
From the adrenaline-pumping rush of roller coasters to the laugh-out-loud fun of bumper cars, families were immersed in a day of excitement and wonder. Many experienced their first taste of theme park thrills– something that feels worlds away from the hospital environment.
The day’s highlights included the hair-raising Hollywood Stunt Driver 2 show, where roaring engines and spectacular stunts kept eyes wide and jaws dropped.
Patient families also had the chance to meet their favourite Looney Tunes characters, alongside a host of beloved superheroes and movie stars – sparking smiles, selfies and memories to last a lifetime.
Bringing light during dark times
These special moments are only possible thanks to the generosity of our donors and partners who make events like this come to life.
To help us create more experiences that lift the spirits of Queensland’s sickest kids, please consider donating to our Tax Appeal at childrens.org.au/home today. For more information about the difference you can make, head here.
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.
