A special donation providing comfort and enjoyment for families at the most difficult time

The palliative care unit at Townsville University Hospital has unveiled a newly revamped kids’ play area, bringing further comfort to families spending time in the centre.
The revamp was made possible by a $4,300 donation by the Townsville Chiefs, a masters rugby league team of correctional services staff who have been deeply involved in charitable efforts across the community for years.
The fundraising effort was inspired by a former member of the Townsville Chiefs, Kym Lawton, who passed away after battling cancer.
Ms Lawton’s daughter and Townsville Chiefs supporter Brooke White praised the palliative care service for their outstanding support especially for families with young children, and the Townsville Chiefs decided to honour Kym's memory with the donation.
The donation went towards purchasing new items to enhance the children’s area including a specially designed wallpaper, toys, a tv, and a plaque dedicated to Ms Lawton’s family and her life.
Townsville Chiefs’ member Russ Longson said he understood the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for families in clinical environments, especially palliative care.
“As a parent myself I know the experience of taking kids to palliative care when they may not understand the seriousness of it, can be hard,” Mr Longson said.
“We know that something like this kids’ area makeover will help many families going forward, and lots of kids will make use of it.”
The Chiefs has a long history of raising money for efforts at the Townsville University Hospital including fundraising for air fryers, record players and Bluetooth speakers for patients in the dementia award, and breast cancer fundraising every October.
“Our big thing as locals is just trying to give back to our community in a way that everyone can be touched,” Mr Longson said.
"The group is currently preparing for their its 5th year providing gifts to all children spending Christmas in hospital."
Townsville Hospital and Health Service graphic designer Rebekah Schalcher worked collaboratively with the Townsville Chiefs and palliative care staff on the artwork for the kids’ area.
Ms Schalcher said the artwork took inspiration from the natural surrounds of the palliative care centre.
“We wanted the wallpaper design to be reflective of the plants and environment that surround the palliative care centre,” Ms Schalcher said.
“The concept that I created is filled with playful and colourful illustrations of leaves and insects, as the wallpaper is very detailed the more the children explore the space, the more little critters they will find.
“The overall goal was to ensure the space was filled with happiness, to act as a space that kids and families can go to take their mind off where they are for even just a moment.”
Palliative medicine staff specialist Dr Rachel O’Neil said the team at the palliative care centre was incredibly grateful for the new kids’ area generously donated by the Townsville Chiefs.
“The space has been thoughtfully designed to provide a safe haven for children to play, relax, and find comfort during what can be a challenging time for families,” Dr O’Neil said.
“For the unit, it fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that families can stay connected while accessing care for a life limiting illness.
“This initiative not only reflects the Townsville Chiefs commitment to community but also creates lasting positive impacts for families navigating a difficult journey together.
“We couldn’t be more thankful.”