A BRIDGE TO BRIGHTEN YOUNG LIVES
Despite the caring efforts of their families and medical staff, life is often difficult for children and adolescents who spend extended periods of time in Perth Children’s Hospital due to long-term illness.
In 2021, an inspirational project aimed at bringing some light and colour into the lives of these patients finally came to fruition.
Supported by The Stan Perron Charitable Foundation, The Kids’ Bridge is a rainbow-coloured walkway that snakes its way over Winthrop Avenue in Nedlands, allowing pedestrians to cross safely between the hospital and the beautiful natural surroundings of Kings Park.
In what is set to brighten the lives of thousands of WA kids enduring the struggles of ill-health, the Perth Children’s Hospital Kids’ Bridge, dual named the 'Koolangka Bridge', which means 'children' in Noongar, is now officially open.
The three-metre wide, 217-metre-long structure will provide an opportunity for a range of therapies, including allied health, to be delivered in an environment harnessing the benefits of nature.
As well as bringing relief and joy to many young patients, clinicians believe that being able to “escape” from the hospital environment into the fresh air and vibrancy of native bushland will bring great therapeutic benefits.
Staff across the QEII campus and the general public will also be able to use the bridge to easily access the park for fitness and wellbeing activities.
This project is especially close to the heart of Steve Carulli, a member of the Foundation Board of Directors. Steve’s son, Matthew Carulli, spent long periods in hospital after being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, and was an early proponent of the bridge before his sad passing in 2014.
Published: August 2021