The Narrabri Presbyterian Church has continued its support of Allowah Presbyterian Children’s Hospital through its much-loved campoven dinner night.
Allowah, based in Sydney, has provided support for children with complex disabilities for more than 70 years.
Reverend Sam Smith told the gathering, assembled in the church hall, about the important work conducted at the children’s hospital.
Allowah focuses on providing children and carers with respect and care and support in a Christian environment.
A vast array of services are on offer at the 24-hour care paediatric hospital facility.
“The children we support often require a high level of medical care and are at the centre of our service delivery,” information from Allowah states.
“Our staff are exceptional in the way they care for the children.
“When a child who has moderate to severe disabilities and complex health needs becomes unwell, it is good to know that Allowah has the skills and facilities to care for them.”
Rev Smith said the Narrabri church continued its support of Allowah as it is a hospital like no other.
Following his talk, Rev Smith displayed a video showcasing the support provided by the hospital.
The video, ‘Riley’s Story’, focuses on the hospital’s impact on an 18-year-old with a great sense of humour, a kind heart and an extraordinary journey.
Riley and his family have been a part of the Allowah community for over a decade, finding support, care, and a sense of belonging in a place designed to meet his unique needs.
Riley’s mother, Joanne, recalls the early days: “When Riley was born, we knew there were going to be some issues. It was very full-on from the start.”
The family had to navigate numerous doctor’s appointments and therapies, adjusting their lives to accommodate Riley’s needs.
Joanne didn’t go back to work, needing to dedicate herself to Riley’s care, which involved a constant search for the right resources and supports.
Despite the challenges, Riley found a place where he could thrive: Allowah.
“Do you like coming to Allowah?” Joanne asks Riley. His enthusiastic response, “Yeah!”
During the fundraising evening, guests enjoyed delicious campoven cooking which was earlier prepared at the home of church elder Terry Sadler.
Mr Sadler is a campoven cook of many years and is passing his passion on to others in the church fraternity. Some 23 campovens were prepared for the gathering.
An array of meats and vegetables were on offer as well as delicious damper which had been prepared by Judy Sadler.
Delicious dessert was enjoyed by all later in the evening.
