Thanks to an incredible community effort, South Australia’s first Rocket Ship MRI Simulator is on its way to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
The Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation community celebrated a remarkable achievement at this year’s City-Bay Fun Run, exceeding its $40,000 fundraising goal to help deliver South Australia’s first Rocket Ship MRI Simulator to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
Participants of all ages laced up in support of the WCH Foundation to help transform the hospital experience for children requiring MRI scans.
Turning a vision into reality
The Rocket Ship MRI Simulator is a fully immersive preparation tool designed specifically for children. Created to look and feel like a rocket ship, it allows young patients to practise the MRI experience in a safe, playful and familiar environment before their actual scan.
Children can rehearse lying still, become comfortable with MRI sounds and equipment, and build confidence through guided play experiences. By reducing fear and anxiety, the simulator can help minimise the need for sedation and general anaesthesia while improving the overall experience for children and their families.
Research has shown MRI simulation programs can significantly reduce the need for general anaesthesia in children, helping more young patients access scans sooner and receive earlier diagnosis and treatment.
A memorable day at City-Bay
Race day was filled with energy, determination and community spirit as Team WCH Foundation participants tackled the iconic City-Bay course.
The Foundation was proud to be joined by City-Bay Ambassador Alice Monfries and the 9 News Run for a Reason team, Blair Boyer MP, Chris Picton MP, Hon Heidi Girolamo MLC and alongside valued supporters and partners including AHT Group, SA Power Networks and BADGE Group, who helped champion the fundraising effort throughout the campaign.
Every participant played an important role in reaching the fundraising target, with supporters showing up for a cause that will make a lasting difference for South Australian children.
After crossing the finish line, supporters gathered at the Watermark Hotel in Glenelg for a well-earned post-race celebration.
Participants enjoyed refreshments from Nippy’s and Fleurieu Milk Company, recovery massages provided by Evolve College, a team photo and the opportunity to connect with fellow team members while reflecting on what they had achieved together.
The gathering provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate not only the kilometres completed, but the collective impact of the fundraising effort.
Creating impact beyond the finish line
While reaching the fundraising target is a significant milestone, the impact extends even further.
Funds raised beyond the campaign goal will support play therapy at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, helping create moments of comfort, connection and joy for children and families during their hospital stay.
Thanks to the incredible support of the WCH Foundation community, the Rocket Ship MRI Simulator is on its way to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, with more updates to come as this exciting project becomes a reality.
