By YASEMIN TALAT
A NEW event in the Western Suburbs is stepping up to raise funds for the Sunshine Hospital.
The inaugural WalkWest event is set to raise funds to support the new Children’s Ward at Sunshine Hospital.
The Western Health Foundation has launched a $1.1 million Children’s Ward Appeal to re-fit the ward and provide vital new services for children and families.
Melbourne comedian, writer, singer and mother of two, Em Rusciano has joined forces with the Western Health Foundation as the ambassador for the event.
Last week Rusciano visited the Children’s Ward and met sick youngsters, including 12-year-old Ronan Frye, who was admitted to the ward due to a severe infection in his leg.
“Visiting the kids and parents at the Children’s Ward at Sunshine Hospital was overwhelming, uplifting and grounding all at once,” Rusciano said.
“I know I am guilty of taking my children’s health for granted because you never think it will be your child lying in a hospital bed,” she said.
“The staff do an incredible job. It takes a special kind of person to care for sick children; they must be made of tough stuff, wrapped up in compassion and care.”
Rusciano encouraged people to get walking for the children of the west and join her at the event.
“This Children’s Ward desperately needs an upgrade and I’m doing WalkWest on 6 April to raise funds to make that happen,” she said.
The event will be held at Footscray Park on 6 April with activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Participants in the walk can choose to run or walk a five-kilometre, 10-kilometre or 15-kilometre course on the day.
For further information visit www.walkwest.com.au or contact the Western Health Foundation on 1300 079 599.
