In our darkest hours, when we were facing the loss of our beautiful mum Sarah, the Family Room on G5 Ward at QA Hospital became a place where we had the most heartbreaking conversations with healthcare professionals, and where we tried to hold it together for our mum while desperately needing a moment of rest ourselves.

During those exhausting hours, we took turns sleeping on hard-backed chairs, or even on the floor, just to stay close to my dear mum. No one should have to choose between being there for their loved one and finding rest when it feels impossible. 

Towards the end of mummy’s life, the ward kindly lent us one of their very few relative beds that they had available, but we are well aware that this left other families without that much-needed respite. We don’t want anyone else to have to go without this basic comfort during such an emotionally overwhelming time.

We spoke with the amazing G5 team about ways to improve the Family Room, and they suggested adding a recliner chair - a simple yet essential piece of furniture that would provide families with a chance to rest and recharge while supporting their loved ones.

In honour of Mummy’s memory and to express our gratitude to the incredible G5 staff, we are raising funds to purchase this much-needed recliner and if possible, extra little touches to make the room more comfortable and a better opportunity for a moment of respite. We believe this will make a meaningful difference for future families facing similar challenges.

Instead of flowers or gifts at the funeral, we kindly ask for donations. Every penny raised will go directly towards making the Family Room a more comfortable, restful space for families during their most difficult moments.

No matter how small the donation, I promise you from firsthand experience that your generosity will make a profound difference. It may never erase the pain, but it will ease the burden for those facing the most excruciating moments of their lives. By contributing, you’ll help honour our incredible mum, show deep gratitude to the amazing healthcare professionals that go above and beyond to care for those we love most, and provide some comfort to future families who will find themselves in similar situations. Together, we can make their journey, however slightly, a little bit easier during their most difficult times. Thank you for your kindness and support.

With heartfelt thanks and endless gratitude,

Sarah’s family

xx