SS&A Delivers Bright New Car to Support Kids in Need

The SS&A Club has been thanked for the delivery of a brightly wrapped set of wheels for use by the Paediatrics at the Child’s Home (PATCH) program at Albury Wodonga Health.

The Subaru Forester will enable PATCH nurses to deliver vital care to children who are well enough to remain at home but require ongoing clinical support.

Albury Wodonga Health CEO Bill Appleby said the SS&A’s generous donation of a $60,000 vehicle would make a world of difference to children needing vital medical care in the community.  

‘To have a dedicated vehicle for our nurses will enable us to bring the PATCH program to more young people across this region,” Mr Appleby said.

‘When a child is unwell, being in the comfort of their own home can make a significant difference.”

Mr Appleby noted the latest donation is one of many health initiatives targeted at children delivered by donations from the SS&A.

‘The SS&A’s generosity has had a profound impact on the health and well being of our youngest patients,’ Mr Appleby continued.

’From essential theatre equipment and sensory tools to humidicribs and syringe drivers, their generosity has consistently helped us improve healthcare.

‘This latest donation strengthens our commitment to providing exceptional, community-based healthcare and ensures that sick children can access the care they need, where they feel safest – at home,’ Mr Appleby concluded.

Gerard Darmody, SS&A CEO says he, his directors and staff are committed to driving positive change to help make a difference in our community.

‘Over the years, countless staff and their families have had personal experiences with young children requiring paediatric care at Albury Wodonga Health, so the cause is deeply personal to us,’ Mr Darmody said.

‘We’re passionate about creating meaningful impact where it matters most in our community. We envision a future where state-of-the-art services and equipment are available locally, matching metro standards, reducing the burden of traveling to big cities for vital care, and ultimately keeping our families close when they need each other most.  Every step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to better outcomes for everyone,’ he said.

Director of Paediatrics Dr Mark Norden, along with nurses were on hand as the new car and livery was unveiled  and are excited about the efficiencies a dedicated vehicle will bring.

‘The PATCH program only really got off the ground in November, and in that time more than 70 children have spent 170 days at home in their own beds instead of the hospital,’ Dr Norden said.

‘I’d like to extend my thanks and gratitude to the SS&A for all they’ve done, including this donation of a dedicated vehicle where our PATCH program can more efficiently visit children on a regular basis.’

Joanna Owen, Nurse Unit Manager of the Paediatric ward at Albury Wodonga Health says the donation reflects an ongoing and enduring partnership with the SS&A.

“We’re really lucky honestly the relationship we’ve built with Gerard Darmody and the whole team at the SS&A, it’s amazing. He aligns with my crazy visions for of how I see the world of paediatrics and how to really improve what we do, and his passion to see us enabled to do that is amazing. I think together, the sky is the limit.” Joanna said.

In a further show of support from the SS&A, the bespoke livery of the car was designed by the SS&A’s in-house graphic designer Andrea Frost.