Local artist Kim Barter has been caring for Daylesford Hospital patients in more ways than one for over 12 years.
Not only has Kim regularly donated funds from the sale of her postcard art collection she has also established and maintained the garden outside the hospital’s palliative care room.
She designed the garden and outdoor seating area so that it flowers all year round to provide end-of-life patients with beautiful surroundings and a sense of tranquility.
Kim describes her work “as my personal need to communicate”.
She and her partner and fellow artist, John, moved to the region in 2000, and together they love to cook, grow, make and bake.
The loss of a terminally ill friend at the Daylesford Hospital sparked Kim’s passion for caring for palliative patients and their loved ones.
She said she witnessed the 24-hour care and compassion provided by the staff and made it her mission to create a peaceful environment both indoors and out for people at the end of their lives.
Funds received from Kim’s postcard art project will be used to purchase items that focus on calming and relaxing the senses and promoting positive memories and conversation for our palliative care patients at Daylesford Health.
Central Highlands Rural Health’s CEO, Maree Cuddihy, and Daylesford Health’s Director of Nursing, Catherine Robertson, met with Kim to thank her for caring for her community over so many years.
Maree Cuddihy said:
“Kim has supported our palliative patients in so many ways for over a decade. She has been incredibly thoughtful in creating spaces that are relaxing and peaceful for end-of-life patients at Daylesford Health. We are very grateful for Kim’s contribution to the well-being of her community.”
Central Highlands Rural Health’s mission is to provide the best care to every person, every time. We continue to focus on fundraising for medical equipment upgrades, resident and patient resources, facility upgrades, and staff learning and development in line with this mission.
Every donation helps to improve the health and well-being of our community. Can you give a gift to Central Highlands Rural Health? Don't hesitate to get in touch with Kathryn Kosloff, Fundraising Manager, on (03) 5321 6555 or via giving@chrh.org.au if you have a donation or fundraising idea. Enquiries from individuals, community groups and businesses are always welcome. Online donations to the campus of your choice can be made via www.chrh.org.au/donate
