For generations, the Waterman family has exemplified philanthropy, with Sandra Waterman continuing this legacy through her life of service and a generous bequest to continue their impact.

Sandra Waterman was the only child of Sir Ewen and Lady Vera Waterman, a family deeply connected to South Australia’s history and community. Her parents were passionate supporters of the Adelaide Children’s Hospital (now the Women’s and Children’s Hospital), dedicating their time to fundraising in the 1940s. Lady Vera served as President of the SA Hospitals Visiting Committee in 1948, while Sir Ewen’s leadership and philanthropy earned him a knighthood in 1963. Their dedication to improving healthcare for children left a lasting impression on Sandra, shaping her own commitment to giving back.

Sandra’s life was as extraordinary as her family’s legacy. After completing her education she joined the Commonwealth Police in 1962. Her career spanned over two decades, during which she became a foundation member of the Australian Federal Police. Sandra served as personal security for high-profile dignitaries, including Madam Ky, wife of the Prime Minister of South Vietnam, and Lady Bird Johnson, wife of US President Lyndon B. Johnson. Known for her expertise in unarmed combat, Sandra’s dedication and skill earned her the Police Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours of 1988.

Sandra passed away in November 2022 at the age of 85.  In honor of her parents, whose tireless efforts supported the Adelaide Children’s Hospital, she made a generous bequest to the WCH Foundation. Sandra’s legacy is a testament to her remarkable life of service, generosity, and dedication to making a difference.

To find out more about leaving a gift to the WCH Foundation in your Will, visit our bequests page.

This International Nurses Day, we celebrate inspiring nurses like Janine Emsley, whose unwavering commitment continues to make a meaningful difference.

Starting her nursing career in 1962 at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital (WCH), Janine’s story is one of heartfelt dedication to patients and a legacy that continues to touch lives through her support of the Golden Hearts Bequest Society.  

For Janine, pursuing a career in nursing was a dream nurtured from childhood. “Ever since I was a little girl… I said I was going to be a nurse,” she shared. During her training, Janine earned accolades for her exceptional performance, all while navigating challenging yet impactful moments that shaped her career and transformed her approach to patient care.

Reflecting on one standout experience, she fondly recalled a patient named Peter, a quadriplegic she cared for early in her training. “One day he actually moved a toe, so exciting, and we just developed a lovely rapport,” she said. Their bond grew strong, with Peter even expressing disappointment when Janine had to move to another ward, telling his doctor, “My nurse is moving, and I want to go with her.” 

During her time at the WCH, Janine found deep fulfillment working in wards like Susanne (gastroenterology) and Duncan (burns). “I loved working in Duncan… you could see things happening with this burnt skin every day, improving and getting better,” she recalled.

Janine working in the WCH Angas Theatre in 1965.

Janine’s commitment to care extended beyond her active nursing career. Now a proud member of the Golden Hearts Bequest Society, she has chosen to leave a gift in her Will to the Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation as a way of giving back to a place that means so much to her.

“I just loved working there, being with the kids, and thought this was something I could do to repay the Hospital for all that they gave me.”

Being part of the Golden Hearts Bequest Society has also been a source of joy and reflection for Janine. Though hesitant at first, she now attends events and appreciates the community it fosters. ‘Recalling a recent visit to the Foundation’s ‘Laklinyeri’ Beach House, partly funded through bequests, she shared, ‘

“I get a lot out of it, like that visit to Laklinyeri, that was just amazing.”

Janine (second from the right) at a Golden Hearts Bequest event.

Janine’s story is a testament to the lasting impact a life devoted to others can have. Her nursing career touched countless lives, and through her ongoing generosity, she continues to make a difference today.  

To find out more about leaving a gift to the WCH Foundation in your Will, visit our bequests page. 

Recently, we had the privilege of hosting a truly special event for our Golden Hearts Bequest Society members at the Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation ‘Laklinyeri’ Beach House, located within the picturesque Encounter Lakes in Victor Harbor.

The Laklinyeri Beach House, partly funded through bequests, serves as a place of solace for families with children who have complex medical needs, are in palliative care, or families who are recently bereaved. Purpose-built for comfort and care, The Beach House is designed with the unique needs of each family in mind.

For many members of the Golden Hearts Bequest Society, the visit was an emotional and inspiring experience, shedding light on the true impact their support has on these families.

The morning started with a guided tour of the Beach House, followed by meaningful conversations over lunch.

A highlight of the day was the panel presentation lead by Dr. Chelsea Mauch, Head of Programs and Impact at the WCH Foundation. Chelsea was joined by Dimi Patrinos, Psychosocial Clinical Lead for Paediatric Palliative Care Services at the Women’s and Children’s Health Network (WCHN), and Carolyn Groocock, Senior Art Therapist and grief and loss program facilitator. Their insights into the critical support and services provided to families was truly moving and gave our members a deeper understanding of how families are positively impacted through their support of the WCH Foundation.

A heartfelt thank you to all of our Golden Hearts Bequest Society members for their continued support.

To find out more about leaving a gift to the WCH Foundation in your Will, visit our bequest page.