Sara Fleming recognised for amazing Palliative Care work

We are delighted to share that Sara Fleming, Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Care Director of the Palliative Care Service at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, has been awarded the honour of a Public Service Medal for her incredible work!

Public Service Medal awards are given for outstanding service with nominations approved by governor-general David Hurley.

The governor-general says the recipients are a “reminder and reflection of the richness of spirit, selflessness and good in our community”.

“To the individuals being celebrated; thank you for your contribution to Australia and congratulations on being recognised by your peers and your nation,” he says.

Sara’s Story

Sara Fleming at the opening of the Laklinyeri Beach House.

In 1999, Sara set up the first Paediatric Palliative Care Service in Australasia at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Adelaide.

Every day, Sara and her team help children and families who have limited time together live for every moment. Out of her desire to make a difference, the dream for the Beach House was born.

In 2013, when the WCH Foundation heard of Sara’s dream to build a Beach House for families we were driven to make it a reality.

Sara says, “I identified that a property of this type was needed in South Australia when I realised how hard it was for these families to holiday.”

“The opportunity for a family to go to the Beach House means the child will see that from their diagnosis and journey good things can come.

“If people are happy, relaxed, feel valued and safe, the wellness and the chance for the family to bond are increased.”

Now, thanks to Sara, over 350 people have had the opportunity to stay in this wonderful holiday home – now hosting not only families whose children are in palliative care but also those whose children have complex care needs as well as bereaved families.

Thank you, Sara!

Sara Fleming (middle) with just some of the many families she has supported.

Every day, Sara, along with her team, cares for families facing the most challenging of circumstances but through it all, she is always positive, pragmatic and an absolute fearless advocate for her families.

WCH Foundation CEO, Jane Scotcher, says, “Thank you Sara for your vision and commitment to families. This is a well-deserved acknowledgement.”

Congratulations again to Sara, we are in awe of her talents and her incredibly modest approach to her work.