On Monday 15 May 2023, SCHF launched the Sydney Sick Kid’s Appeal for its third year, aiming to raise vital funds for world-class care and ground-breaking research across Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network. Thanks to the immense generosity of our supporters, we raised an incredible $13 million – and still counting!  

With activations across both Children’s Hospitals in Sydney, giveaways to staff, patients and families across the entire Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, a community activation in Martin Place and a donation takeover at all the major CBD trains stations in Sydney, this year's Sydney Sick Kids Day was the largest to date bringing laughter, love and joy to so many kids in hospital.

At Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Krispy Kreme had donut decorating stations at both sites, bringing a sweet buzz to all the kids. At Westmead, dollar matching donor of up to $250,000 Petbarn Foundation had a puppy play pen, bringing smiles to kids and adults alike, while at Randwick MAC provided face painting, making kids feel as beautiful and brave on the outside as they are on the inside. Additional visits from some of our favourite characters and heroes like Superman, Buzz Lightyear, and Dora the Explorer added an almost uncontainable excitement to the festivities. Meanwhile at the Martin Place Mural Activation, Sydney siders, patient families and celebrities, like Rachel and Ryan from The Block 2022, turned up to paint a stunning mural. 

Throughout the appeal, we shared the inspiring stories of children who live with different illnesses and injuries. For these kids, childhood is far from what it should be. Instead of playdates there are appointments, instead of sleep overs there are stays. These kids are nothing short of brave and extraordinary, but all they long for is an ordinary childhood. Because every child in hospital is a childhood on hold. 

The appeal aims to help kids like Nia, who at the age of five was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Nia had endured months of being unwell, however after spending just a few weeks in hospital for the CAR T-cell therapy, Nia was able to begin resuming a normal life. 

For this year’s appeal, SCHF’s partnered with the wonderful team at FlatoutBear to develop a limited-edition bear. The irresistible soft, snuggly and soothing bear is made from 100% Australian sheepskin and has been adorned with his very own SCHF ribbon to show how special he is. Each bear comes with a bespoke bag designed with artwork from patients across Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network. Carefully drawn by our little artists, the bag offers a safe place for the bear to rest and be carried. 

You can still purchase your own limited-edition bear. Buy your bear today and your donation will go towards the best care possible for children just like Nia. 

Things kicked up a gear when Sydney Sick Kids Day rolled around on Thursday 22nd June. SCHF volunteers, staff and generous supporters put on a day of fun activities at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead to brighten the day of patients and staff.  

We kicked off the morning with Channel 7 News reporter Mark Ferguson at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, followed by welcoming Emily Weir from Channel 7's Home and Away and the Giants Netball squad in our call centre. The celebrations didn’t stop there, with food giveaways, special meet and greets with sporting stars from the Sydney Swans, Sydney Roosters and Giants Netball, facepainting, Lego Masters, magicians, therapy dog cuddles all kindly donated by some of our generous corporate partners.  

Special recognition must be given to Glenorie Bakery for supplying lunch for 1,500 staff, patients and families across Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Glenorie Bakery got involved after hearing about the lunch dilemma through Jonesy & Amanda's “In a JAM” segment, where the popular radio hosts used their collective powers to make a positive impact on the community. Additionally Nudie and Mama Kaz also donated food and drinks to children and families across both major hospital sites, bringing joy and smiles to many.

Appearances from community heroes Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police at all three sites made the activations feel like a true bringing together of the community, especially with an extremely generous $100,000 donation from Fire and Rescue NSW presented at the Martin Place mural.

Sydney Sick Kids Day was a huge success and wouldn’t have been possible without our generous partners. We thank them for helping give all sick kids the childhood they deserve.