The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital is the only NICU outside of the Sydney metropolitan area. Glencore has partnered with that NICU since 2006 to make sure some of the state’s most vulnerable patients have access to the best possible care.
The John Hunter Children’s Hospital NICU cares for approximately 1800 babies each year, supporting families from across the Hunter, Central Coast, New England and Mid-North Coast regions of NSW, many of which are hours away from major metropolitan hospitals.
Over the last 20 years Glencore has contributed more than $1.737 million to fund essential equipment used daily by clinicians in the treatment of each baby that comes through the NICU for specialised support if they are pre-term babies, as well as term babies who need stabilisation, respiratory assistance or intensive monitoring.
That money has been spent on things like advanced ultrasound machines and cooling and monitoring technology that enables early, accurate intervention that can change the course of a child’s life.
Natalie Butchard, Manager of Neonatal Services, said the partnership has had a profound impact on the care the unit can provide.
“We’re so lucky to have this relationship with Glencore. They’ve been a major sponsor of us for many many years and without them we wouldn’t be able to do the things that we do.
“We are very grateful for the partnership.”
For parents like Taylor Mason, whose son Koa was born prematurely, the unit became an essential support system during an incredibly difficult time.
“I went into labour at 22 weeks and spent two months in hospital. Koa was born via emergency caesarean at 30 weeks and taken straight to the NICU for intensive care. The NICU team have been amazing, very understanding and so supportive. Nothing has ever been too much of a problem.”
Tracey Snedden, Glencore Coal’s Community Relations Coordinator said their long-term support reflects their commitment to improving health outcomes across the communities they operate in.
“The equipment funded through the partnership is used every day, often on every admission, helping clinicians deliver the best possible start for babies facing complex health challenges.
“Together Glencore and the John Hunter Children’s Hospital are helping build capacity, strengthen regional health services and ensure that the smallest patients receive world class care close to home,” Tracey said.
Image caption: Dr Koert de Waal, JHCH Neonatologist, Koa and Tayla Mason, Natalie Butchard, JHCH Manager of Neonatal Services, and Tracey Snedden, Glencore Coal Community Relations Coordinator, with a NICU ultrasound machine funded through Glencore’s Community Investment Program.
