It’s not blown out of proportion; this volunteer has patients at Casey Hospital bursting with joy.
Meet David Hale, a dedicated volunteer who spreads joy to patients and their families at Casey Outpatients and Emergency by making balloon animals.
“I started over ten years ago,” says David. “I was approaching retirement and wanted to do something positive with my time. I had some experience with volunteering and making my balloon animals through Legacy and my local church.”
David visits patients in the Children’s Ward, Emergency Department and Outpatients to make balloon animals, have a chat, and spread some cheer.
As one of our volunteers, David has a huge impact on the experience of our patients, carers and families.
“Yesterday I visited a two-year-old who needed to have some blood taken with a needle,” says David. “She was understandably upset. I made a balloon animal for her, and that took her mind off the needle. It made it a little easier for the clinical team, and a little easier for her mum as well.”
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It’s not just children who enjoy David’s balloon animals either – David’s always happy to make a balloon for a patient, no matter their age. “When I start making one, the whole room gets involved. It helps people forget that they’re waiting and takes their mind off the stress of being in hospital.”
Kirsten Holden, Nurse Manager at Casey Specialist Consulting Clinic, says that David makes the days better for everyone. “David brings fun and warmth to what can be a very frightening hospital experience for our little patients. He’s always wearing colourful scrubs, and he entertains, engages for a chat, and spreads his lovely brand of cheer while blowing up all kinds of balloon creations. Thank you, David! You’re an important asset to our team.”
It’s never too early or too late to volunteer, so if you or someone you know wants to volunteer with Monash Health, please get in touch with volunteers@monashhealth.org.
Approved by Associate Professor Anjali Dhulia, Chief Medical Officer, Executive Director, Medical Services