Paige McKay first to explore new garden for hospital patients
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Eight-year-old Paige McKay of Perth Children’s Hospital gave Emma Memma a preview of the hospital’s new Children’s Garden.
Paige, a Telethon Star who has spent much of her life receiving treatment for a rare brain tumour at PCH, became the first child to play in the space.
The garden, construction of which began in January, aims to provide a safe outdoor area for young patients in the oncology and burns wards who face infection risks and limited opportunities to leave the hospital. The existing garden was not suitable for vulnerable patients, prompting the creation of a purpose-built playground designed with infection control as a priority.
Paige and Emma Memma explored the garden together, playing on the climbing walls and drums, and Paige showed Memma her favourite parts of the space. Emma Memma described the meeting as touching, noting Paige’s pride in the hospital and the importance of providing children with a safe outdoor environment. Telethon supports children like Paige by allowing them to share their stories and fostering a spirit of giving across Western Australia.
Paige hopes to return to the garden when it officially opens in December.
