September 2026
Caregivers with a recliner chair gifted to Thomas Furlong Oncology Ward, St John of God Murdoch Hospital.
Thanks to the extraordinary kindness of our donor community, St John of God hospital patients are experiencing greater comfort, dignity and independence during some of life’s most challenging moments.
A chair may seem like a simple item, but for patients spending long hours in treatment or recovery, it can become a place of profound rest, reassurance and connection. Thanks to donor generosity, these everyday moments are being transformed into even more compassionate experiences in our hospitals across Australia.
In our oncology centres, where some treatment sessions can last several hours, specialised electric recliner chairs provide ergonomic support and pressure relief, helping patients remain comfortable during what can already be an emotionally demanding experience.
For grateful patient Paul, the impact was deeply personal. During some of his toughest days on Thomas Furlong Ward, the care and compassion shown by caregivers was complemented by the comfort of a recliner chair donated by a former grateful patient. More than physical comfort, the chair was a reminder that someone who had walked a similar path cared enough to help those who followed.
Inspired by that act of generosity, Paul has since donated five recliner chairs so that other patients can experience the same comfort and support during their own journey. He also hoped the chairs would provide comfort for family members spending long hours by a loved one’s side, offering a place to rest while remaining close when it matters most.
Koala Cove Day Stay Admissions, St John of God Geelong Hospital were gifted recliner chairs from a grateful patient honouring the extraordinary care they received.
A similar story unfolded at St John of God Geelong Hospital, where a grateful patient gifted nine recliner chairs to Koala Cove Day Stay Admissions to help future patients feel more comfortable during treatment.
“The impact and generosity of this donor is truly remarkable,” said Taanya Widdicombe, Director Corporate and Service Development. “These new chairs will be of enormous assistance in supporting the provision of care for our patients.”
Across our hospitals, many more comfort-giving chairs funded by donors are bringing relief and connection every day, not only for patients, but also for the families and caregivers sharing these moments alongside them.
We are deeply grateful to every donor who makes this compassionate care possible. Whether through an appeal across the year, a gift or a donation in gratitude for care received, your generosity leaves a lasting impact. Because of you, patients and families experience not only extraordinary care, but also comfort, dignity and hope when they need it most.