Visitors wanting to stay by the bedside of a loved one at Atherton Hospital, won’t have to worry about their sleeping arrangements after the Yungaburra Freemasons gifted a new overnight recliner lounge.
Barrine Masonic Lodge along with Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland donated $3,200 towards the lounge, which by day is a normal two-seater recliner, that can be converted into a double bed at night.
What’s also unique about the lounge is that each side operates independently of each other, with a total of nine different positions to provide optimal comfort.
Barrine Lodge representative Bob Jessop said the donation would allow visitors to focus on their loved one and spend quality time with them.
“It’s one less thing for them to worry about – especially for someone keeping a bedside vigil,” Bob said.
“The lounge fits perfectly in the rooms and can be wheeled around depending on where it is needed at the time,” he said.
“We’re pleased to be able to make a difference in this way, to help create a comfortable environment where families can remain close to their loved ones while they are in hospital,” he said.
Atherton Hospital serves a large remote area of the Tablelands, accessible to around 45,000 residents.
Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer Gary Mark said alleviating suffering and empowering people to lead better lives was what they championed.
“Improving the quality of life of patients at Atherton Hospital, by allowing them to have their loved ones nearby in a comfortable manner aligns with our purpose which is to provide sustainable support that delivers positive outcomes,” Gary said.
“It’s been our pleasure to have matched the efforts of Barrine Masonic Lodge in support of with this worthy local initiative,” he said.
Photo: Barrine Masonic Lodge Freemasons Mil Clay, Bob Jessop and Bruce Herriot (seated), with Atherton Hospital’s Joyde Peterson (standing, centre back row) and Louise DeMarzi (seated).
