Members of the Bendigo community rallied at a fundraising luncheon to support Bendigo’s St John of God Hospital in its bold vision to raise $2 million for a da Vinci Xi surgical robot. Presently there is no surgical robot at either of Bendigo’s two hospitals. Purchasing a robot will reduce patients' need to travel to Melbourne or Ballarat and attract more surgeons to the region.
Once installed, the surgical robot will enhance the hospital’s capabilities for prostate surgery, colorectal surgery, thoracic surgery, and renal and gynaecological surgical procedures. Guided by surgeons, the futuristic device enables minimally invasive surgery. This helps to achieve shorter hospital stays, less scarring, fewer complications, and faster recovery for patients following a procedure.
Guests attending the luncheon at Mackenzie Quarters had the opportunity to see the da Vinci Xi surgical system first-hand, thanks to a display by Device Technologies. They also heard from St John of God Hospital’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Luis Prado; and a former patient who has benefited from da Vinci robot technology, Julius Porlai.
Fundraising spearhead and event organiser, St John of God Director of Marketing and Business Development, Anna Hill, said she was “overwhelmed” by the community’s enthusiastic support. “It’s exciting to see momentum building and the shared commitment to achieve this vision,” she said. “The da Vinci Xi is a breakthrough in surgical technology that will enable high-precision cancer surgery for patients in Bendigo and the region, without the need to travel to Melbourne. “Every dollar that’s donated will enable us to innovate and improve our community’s care.”
St John of God Bendigo is now halfway towards reaching its $2 million target. Donations can be made online at www.sjogfoundation.org.au/donate-Bendigo or by calling the St John of God Foundation on 1800 281 288.
The main sponsor of the fundraising lunch was Bendigo Ford. Other supporters included Bendigo Bank, WIN TV, and Bendigo Art Gallery Café.
Among those attending the fundraiser were Bendigo Bank’s General Manager Corporate and Public Affairs, Chief of Staff Will Conlan, Head of Social Purpose Sharnie Curnow; CEO Mandalay Resources Corporation Ryan Austerberry, Executive Director Minerals Council of Australia James Sorahan and Bendigo Ford’s principal and owners Travis and Donna Holt. Distinguished guests included the Bishop of Sandhurst, Shane Mackinlay; Gaelle Broad, MLC for Northern Victoria; Greater Bendigo Mayor Andrea Metcalf; St John of God Hospital doctors and senior clinical leaders. St John of God Foundation was represented at the event by Chief Executive Bianca Pietralla, Community Engagement Director Rachel Bruechle and Director of Philanthropy Preema Wong.
Image above: Bishop Shane Mackinlay pictured with Dr Luis Prado, Chief Medical Officer, St John of God Health Care (left) and local cardiologist, Dr Joris Mekel (right) who led Grace before lunch.
The da Vinci Xi surgical robot on display at the Fundraising Luncheon.
