THE Caldwell family considers Hummingbird House, Queensland’s first children hospice, a blessing.
For the Caldwells – Kevin and Johanna and their two daughters 10-year-old Gabby and Sophia, 7 – a break from a routine of constant care is like gold.
When Gabby was only four months old, she started having seizures every couple of months.
At two she was diagnosed with dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy that begins at infancy.
In December 2009, Gabby contracted gastroenteritis, which resulted in seizures lasting four days.
This “cluster of seizures” left her with a severe brain injury that has left her unable to walk, talk or eat without assisted therapy.
In 2012, Gabby underwent major bone surgery and during a long operation she suffered heart failure and breathing issues.
After a second operation a year later, Gabby was forced onto life support in intensive care for 15 days. She was not expected to survive, but she did.
Since then, Gabby’s overall health has improved, but she requires constant care.
The Caldwells were among the first families to spend a weekend at Hummingbird House and try out the facilities – including staying in a purpose built, multi-bedroom unit with ensuite.
“It means rest and recreation and respite,” Mr Caldwell said.
“To have a moment to rest as caregivers to allow others to takeover, so we can simply have time together, to recharge and create memories. This place is more like a home than a hospital.”
While nurses cared for Gabby, the Caldwell’s were simply able to relax.
“My favourite thing about Hummingbird house, as a parent is how wonderful the staff are. They are very talented and skilled at what they provide,” he said.
“It’s the place that you need. As a parent of a child with a life limiting condition you are often lugging a lot of equipment. It’s a place with everything set up and many things have been donated here such as the ceiling hoists.
“It’s a place we can come and just be a family. And for us it’s about cherishing the moments that we do have together.”
By Mark Bowling
