For nearly a decade, Trish Hummerston has been quietly transforming the hospital experience for thousands of patients and families through an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Hervey Bay Hospital is incredibly fortunate to have volunteers like Trish whose compassion continues to brighten the lives of patients, families, and staff alike every day.
Bringing along her special qualities of compassion and kindness, Trish began volunteering at Hervey Bay Hospital in 2016 as part of the Hospital Auxiliary. It did not take long for her to recognise an opportunity to make a meaningful difference to patients during what can often be a stressful and emotional time in their healthcare journey.
Inspired by her own lived experiences and driven by a desire to provide comfort to others, Trish founded Kids Comfort a year later. What started as a heartfelt idea has grown into an incredible community-supported initiative that continues to touch lives every single day throughout the hospital wards.
With the generous support of local donors and the wider community, Trish now coordinates and supplies an enormous range of patient comfort items designed to bring reassurance, distraction, warmth, and dignity to patients of all ages. Her contributions include children’s activity bags, teddy bears, patient blankets, shower packs, personal care items, “Hug Me” rugs, distraction toys, and many other thoughtful essentials.
The impact of her work is nothing short of extraordinary and over the past 10 years, Trish has donated more than 20,000 children’s activity bags, 21,000 teddy bears and 1,000 patient blankets.
Behind every number is a patient, child, parent, or family member who has felt comforted during a difficult moment.
Whether it is a frightened child receiving a teddy bear before treatment, a patient feeling cared for through a simple personal care pack, or a family finding comfort in a small act of kindness, Trish’s work reminds us that compassion can leave a lasting impact.
“It is amazing to see how a simple small gesture can have such a positive difference during a person’s healthcare journey within the hospital,” Trish said.
When asked what continues to drive her passion after so many years of volunteering, her answer is simple and heartfelt.
“It’s my absolute passion. I love the people I get to meet, and it is so rewarding to help so many people daily.”
Trish’s dedication, generosity, and kindness embody the very spirit of volunteering. Through her tireless efforts, she has created comfort, connection, and hope for thousands within our hospital community.
Interested in volunteer opportunities?
If you’re interested in joining our fantastic team of volunteers you can talk to our volunteer coordinator on 07 4184 1862, or email WBHHS.Volunteers@health.qld.gov.au. More information is also available by visiting our website.