Lismore Base Hospital’s Children’s Ward has received two new BiliLux phototherapy lights thanks to a $10,000 donation from O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Lismore through the national O’Brien Giving Back Grant.
The grant was secured after O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Lismore Chief Financial Officer Juanita McKay nominated Our Kids for the funding program. The successful application was determined by public vote, with the funding used to purchase the two phototherapy units for the Children’s Ward.
The BiliLux phototherapy lights are used to treat babies admitted with neonatal jaundice. The units sit on top of a humidicrib and deliver targeted light therapy, allowing clinicians to adjust the treatment intensity to suit each baby’s needs.
O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Lismore General Manager Clint Willoughby and McKay recently visited the Children’s Ward to see the equipment in use. Acting Nursing Unit Manager Gemma Percival demonstrated how the new units will support local families by providing treatment closer to home.
“We’re incredibly proud to support Our Kids and be part of something that makes a real difference for local families. Visiting the Children’s Ward and Special Care Nursery really highlighted the importance of this support,” McKay said.
“This grant was a wonderful opportunity to give back, and the community support behind it shows just how much Our Kids means to the Northern Rivers.”
Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator Rebekka Battista said the donation highlighted the important role local businesses play in supporting healthcare across the Northern Rivers.
“This equipment will make a real difference for babies requiring treatment for jaundice and will support our dedicated clinical teams in delivering the very best care,” Battista said.
“A massive thanks to Juanita, and the entire O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing team for believing in Our Kids and going above and beyond to make this possible.”
O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Lismore has supported Our Kids for many years through financial contributions, volunteering and participation in fundraising events.
As naming partner of the Our Kids Winter Ball, the business also assists with the setup of major events, including the Lismore Samson Fitness Challenge. Staff regularly take part in community fundraising events such as the Our Kids Golf Day, Melbourne Cup Luncheon, Tutu Day and the Darrel Chapman Fun Run.
Funds raised by Our Kids remain in the Northern NSW region, supporting paediatric equipment, education, research and family support services.
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