Former Married at First Sight Australia couple, Johnny and Kerry Balbuziente, are delivering real impact for Queensland’s sick kids – signing on as Ambassadors for Children’s Hospital Foundation to use their platform to support families navigating some of their toughest moments.
The couple first met on Married at First Sight Australia in 2021 and have since built a loyal following by sharing the realities of their life beyond the experiment, marrying in 2023 and welcoming their daughter Chloe in 2024.
It was this transition into parenthood that inspired the couple to support the Foundation.
As new parents, Johnny and Kerry were struck by how quickly life can change for families whose child need urgent medical care, and how much the hospital environment matters during those moments.
After learning about the Foundation’s work raising funds for groundbreaking research, world-class equipment and on the ground support for children and families at Queensland Children’s Hospital, the couple felt a natural connection to cause.
Turning care into action
Johnny and Kerry formally joined our Ambassador Program in April 2026. As Ambassadors, the two will support our mission to provide comfort, connection and wrap-around care for sick children and their families across Queensland
The couple’s involvement with the Foundation began quietly several months prior, donating toys during the Christmas period and volunteering at our much-loved Foundation Fun Days – monthly themed celebrations held at Queensland Children’s Hospital that give young patients and their families a welcome break from their medical journeys.
Kerry Balbuziente, an occupational therapist, said what surprised her most about Queensland Children’s Hospital was how different it felt from a traditional hospital environment.
“What surprised us most was how little it felt like a hospital,” Ms Balbuziente said. “The Foundation creates moments of comfort and normality for families at a time when they need it most, and that makes an enormous difference.”
Johnny Balbuziente, Director of Partnerships at Queensland Fringe, said seeing the Foundation’s work first-hand left a lasting impression.
“Seeing how much thought goes into making hospital less intimidating for kids and families really stayed with us,” Mr Balbuziente said. “We wanted to use our platform to help shine a light on that work.”
Giving voices to sick and injured kids
Our Ambassadors play a vital role in championing sick and injured kids across the state by raising awareness, engaging with the community and supporting our fundraising efforts.
By joining the program, Johnny and Kerry will help shine a light on the experiences of children and families seeking treatment at Queensland Children’s Hospital, amplifying their voices and stories.
Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice said Johnny and Kerry’s genuine connection with audiences make them powerful advocates for families across Queensland.
“Our Ambassador Program allows us to connect with Australians through voices they relate to and trust,” Ms Rice said. “Johnny and Kerry bring warmth, relatability and a strong sense of purpose, and we’re proud to welcome them as Ambassadors.”
If you would like to help make a difference for Queensland’s sick kids, make a donation today.
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.
