Community Generosity in Action
- Gore Health
- Jul 3
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 23
When local people come together, incredible things happen.
A collaborative donation from the Gore River Valley Lions Club and the Eastern Southland Diabetes Support Group enabled Gore Health to purchase a Sara Stedy, an innovative patient transfer aid that helps nursing staff safely assist patients who are unable to stand or walk independently.
The idea came from local community member Alan "Tiny" Byrne, who experienced the benefits of a Sara Stedy during his own recovery in Dunedin Hospital. Having seen first-hand how the equipment improved patient care and supported hospital staff, Tiny suggested that Gore Health would also benefit from having one.
Funds originally raised through a charity golf tournament organised by Tiny's Southland rugby teammates following his diabetes diagnosis were generously donated by Tiny to the Eastern Southland Diabetes Support Group, allowing the funding to benefit the wider community rather than himself. The Gore River Valley Lions Club then contributed the remaining funds needed to purchase the equipment.
Today, the Sara Stedy has become an invaluable piece of equipment at Gore Health, improving patient safety while making everyday care easier for nursing staff.
It's a wonderful example of what can be achieved when our community works together to support local healthcare.
"Every donation, large or small, helps us continue improving healthcare for our community."
