National Volunteer Week 13 - 19 May 2013

Volunteers – Thanks A MIllion

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is the largest celebration of volunteers and volunteerism in Australia, and provides an opportunity to highlight the role of volunteers in our communities and to say thank you to the more than 6 million Australians who volunteer.

Australian volunteers are essential to society, and many charities would struggle to survive without the support of their volunteers. Australian volunteers contribute more than 700 million hours of community service to so many areas of society, including community health care, heritage and arts, environment conservation, emergency services, education, social justice and sports. NVW provides a platform to pay tribute to these volunteers who donate their time and energy to help others.

National Volunteer Week (NVW) begins the Monday after Mothers Day in May each year – 13th to 19th May 2013.

HeartKids would like to take this opportunity to thank the many volunteers who give so much of their time to make a significant difference to our community. Our volunteers do such a wonderful job in supporting the HeartKids team and more importantly our families. We are only able to provide the activities and services we do with the help of our dedicated team of volunteers.

If you would like to volunteer for HeartKids please visit our website for more details http://www.heartkidsvic.org.au/index.php/state/howtohelp/72/

LeasePlan shows heart in Hobart with Carn the Kids

Thanks to LeasePlan’s Carn the Kids program, 12 year-old HeartKid Oliver Parnham got the opportunity of a lifetime on Saturday 13 April when he led his beloved North Melbourne players onto the field as the official mascot at Blundstone Arena, Hobart.

Oliver, who suffers from a heart condition called Truncus Arteriosus, has already had three open heart surgeries in his short time, still has regular visits to the cardiologist and will be on medication for the rest of his life.

Saturday’s game marked the second official HeartKids Cup, which will now be an annual event when the Sydney Swans play North Melbourne. HeartKids was LeasePlan’s chosen charity partner in 2012, and have since remained regular partners of our Carn the Kids events program. To help celebrate the special occasion of the ‘HeartKids Cup’, 100 kids and carers from HeartKids were invited by LeasePlan to attend Saturday’s match at Blundstone Arena.

In addition to being the on-field mascot at the game, Oliver was also lucky enough to visit the Roos training session on Friday and meet the players, including 2013 Carn the Kids ambassador, Jack Ziebell – all thanks to Carn the Kids. Prior to the game on Saturday, Oliver also got to rub shoulders with North Melbourne legend and HeartKids Cup Ambassador, Glenn Archer.

Carn the Kids is a program which gives kids who might not otherwise have the opportunity a ‘fun day out’. LeasePlan, Carn the Kids and North Melbourne have worked together since 2009 to host kids at Roos’ games, complete with player visits, meat pies, drinks, face painting and showbags. The program also celebrated its 10th birthday and 20,000th kid guest through the turnstiles in 2012.

For more information on the Carn the Kids program visit http://www.carnthekids.com.au

Entertainment Books 2013/2014

We are pleased to announce that we are selling the new 2013 | 2014 Entertainment™ Books as a fund-raiser for HeartKids Victoria. Entertainment™ Books are packed with hundreds of up to 50% off and 2-for-1 offers for the best restaurants, cafés, attractions, hotel accommodation, travel and much more!
Available NOW, the new Book is only $65, and you’ll receive $15,000 worth of valuable offers which are valid until 1 June 2014.

Entertainment™ Books feature valuable up to 50% off and 2-for-1 offers from many popular local businesses, including:

Red Spice Road, The Groove Train, Grill’d, Hoyts, TGI Fridays, KFC, McDonalds, Coles, Sea World, AFL, Caltex, Woolworths, Dan Murphy’s … plus hundreds more!

…plus there are hundreds more!

Order and pay for your new Melbourne Entertainment™ Book before the end of April and you’ll receive Bonus Offers* valued at over $185, that can be used immediately! *Whilst stocks last

Order on-line https://www.entertainmentbook.com.au/orderbooks/180y947

Or download an order form and send it to us Entertainment_Book_Order_Form_2013.pdf

Howie’s Place

Demystifying hospital for kids with cardiac conditions

An interactive website to shed light on the hospital experience and dispel anxiety for thousands of Australian children living with a heart condition was launched at The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) today. The website, named Howie’s Place, is the first of its kind in Australia and features colourful child-friendly videos for children and families to ensure they are prepared and informed before they enter the hospital environment. Through a partnership between the RCH and HeartKids, and generous funding from The Honda Foundation, Howie’s Place was developed in response to the anxiety families can feel before they enter the hospital environment. The supportive tool was designed to assist parents in preparing their child for cardiac treatment, tests and hospital admissions.

Lyndall Cowley, mother of seven-year-old cardiac patient Mia Cowley, said preparing a young child for major surgery was challenging. “It can be a very scary time for the entire family. When Mia was coming to hospital before each of her four cardiac surgeries all we had at home was a basic children’s book about heart conditions, there was nothing to show her what it would be like when she came to hospital,” said Lyndall. “Howie’s Place would have been a tremendous support. The website makes complicated information child and family friendly and will provide immense comfort for families during what can be a very difficult time,” she said.

RCH Director of Cardiology Dr Michael Cheung said coming to hospital for a simple test or for major cardiac surgery can be equally as daunting for the thousands of children that come to the RCH for cardiac treatment. “The RCH performs over 10,000 echocardiograms and over 1000 heart operations each year. We are also the Nationally Funded Centre for paediatric heart transplantation and hypoplastic left heart syndrome.” “Having a tool that allows our patients to gain an understanding about life in hospital when being treated for a cardiac condition, before admission and from the comfort of their own home, is invaluable,” he said.

The RCH is the largest paediatric cardiac centre in Australia, providing comprehensive cardiac surgical services for children from Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and overseas.

HeartKids Victoria CEO Terry Hopkins said Howie’s Place was designed and tailored to ensure families had an interactive tool that was engaging and could educate and prepare both the patient and their family before they go to hospital. “With generous long-term funding from The Honda Foundation and in partnership with the RCH we have been able to create this wonderful tool for families throughout Australia,” he said.

The website contains videos that feature the voice of the late Bud Tingwell as Howie – a loveable kangaroo character. In the ‘kids’ section of the website Howie guides children on a journey through the RCH, exploring the Koala (Cardiac) Ward and meeting doctors, teachers and educational play therapists. There is also a video that teaches children about their heart condition. In the ‘families’ section, Howie tours the RCH, follows a patient who is having an echo and ECG test and explains what happens before and during a hospital admission.

For more information on Howie’s Place, please visit the website at http://www.rch.org.au/howie

Branch network/coffee mornings

To enable families to offer support to each other in their local community, HeartKids Victoria has established a number of branches within Victoria and Tasmania. Each branch has a co-ordinator who is happy to receive a call from you. Where possible, the co-ordinator may arrange regular coffee mornings and other support events. If a branch does not exist near your home, please contact Sherrie McDonald M: 0431 544 510 or email . She will keep your details and advise you when a local branch is formed in your area.

Why join a local branch?

• share information and experiences

• support each other

• know that you are not alone

• allow your child to grow up with other heart kids

• establish friendships with other HeartKid families

Some of our coffee mornings organised by our branches are held in play centres. The entry is free as HeartKids pays for your child and siblings to attend. Food and drinks are at your cost. Other coffee mornings are held in member’s homes or at parks.

For contact details for our local co-ordinators and for branch news, please select :

Branch_contact_details_and_news_-_Jan_2013.pdf

Some of our coordinators have some news to share about their branches : –

• ALBURY/WODONGA Albury-Wodonga_branch_news_2012.pdf

• BALLARAT Ballarat_news.doc

• BENDIGO Bendigo_branch_news_2012.pdf

• BURNIE Burnie_Branch_News_2012.pdf

• ECHUCA Echuca_branch_news_2011.pdf

• GEELONG Geelong_Branch_news_2012.pdf

• HOBART Hobart_Branch_News_2012.pdf

• LAUNCESTON Launceston_Branch_News_2011.pdf

• MORNINGTON PENINSULA Mornington_Peninsula_Branch_News.pdf

• PAKENHAM Pakenham_branch_news_2012.pdf

• SHEPPARTON Shepparton_Branch_news_2012.pdf

• TULLAMARINE Tullamarine_Branch_News_2012.pdf

• WANTIRNA Wantirna_Branch_News_2012.pdf

• WONTHAGGI Wonthaggi_Branch_News_2011.pdf

International Nurses Day 12 May 2013

International Nurses Day

International Nurses Day is a chance to celebrate nurses and their contribution to the health of society. Each year, the International Council of Nurses chooses a theme for International Nurses Day discussions. The theme for 2013 is Closing The Gap: Millennium Development Goals

International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world every May 12, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth.

HeartKids is constantly impressed with our wonderful nurses’ skills and commitment as they work with our children and families. THANK YOU to each and every one of you for making a difference in the lives of our heart children.

Youth Forum - Study with your health Not against it 26 June 2013

The RCH Adolescent Transition Program, Ronald McDonald Learning Program and Capital City LLEN would like to invite you to a unique Youth Forum on June 26 aimed at helping you to navigate years 11 and 12 VCE/VCAL and beyond. The forum isn’t just another one of the hundreds “studying” or “how to learn” seminars, Youth Forum 2013 is designed specifically for young people who are studying but also have a chronic health condition or disability to manage as well.

Youth Forum 2013 focuses on providing information about how to do the best you can with balancing studying and your health. On the day there will be a couple of key presentations ranging from explaining resources and services to you as a student with a chronic health condition or disability (such as SEAS and special provisions), free tutoring opportunities and how Universities and TAFEs can support you in further tertiary education.

Everyone has different ideas and goals for education and work so along with some important presentations there will be plenty of free roaming time to have a walk around and choose what you’re interested in hearing about. Stalls will be set up with information on a vast number of topics all to do with studying while maintaining your health and even just general information that applies to everyone.

Great guest speakers will attend to talk honestly about how they managed their lives, juggling education, work and other commitments and how they overcame them. Guest speaker – Sam Bramham has gone on to do amazing things and is a Paralympics gold medallist. The host for the afternoon in the hilarious George McEnroe who does a lot of great community work alongside her stand up comedy and radio host career.

The Youth Forum is a great way to get some really useful information, link up with helpful supports, hear from some funny and successful guest speakers, enjoy a bite to eat and meet others who are going through the same thing as you!

The specific details about the Youth Forum are on the flyers below. Attendance is free so if you’re interested in coming along, all you have to do is fill out the registration form below and return it as soon as possible to secure your place at this great event!

Youth_Forum_Registration_Form.pdf

Box Hill Train Day - 12 October 2013

Date: Saturday 12th October 2013

Time: 11.00am – 1.30pm

Thanks to the generosity of the Kiwanis Club of Waverley and the Box Hill Miniature Train Society, we are able to offer our families a free fun day out again this year. Please keep the day free. This event is not open for bookings yet. Please check Facebook, our website and our Winter magazine for further details.

Heartfelt Golfing 19 May 2013

Come and join us for a BBQ and Music at the Malvern Valley Golf Course on Sunday 19th of May 11am-4pm.

We will be auctioning a signed cricket bat and holding a raffle at 3pm. Signed by Mitchell Johnson, Shane Watson, George Bailey, Shaun Marsh, Xavier Doherty and James Faulkner.
Art & crafts area for kids as well as clothing stalls.

Address : 1 Golfers Drive Malvern East

Tickets via http://www.trybooking.com/COJJ
Tickets include BBQ and admission to the Event. Please book early.

Adults $12.50 Children Under 13 $10.00
Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) $40.00

Golf will be available, separately to tickets for the Event on (03) 8290-4020 Again please book early

PROUDLY SUPPORTING HEARTKIDS!

Magnificent Miss 31 May

A night of breathtaking new fashion and style, as aspiring hair stylists, make-up artists and models showcase their talents and vie for the title of Magnificent Miss Champion. This dazzling charity event, features four rounds of electrifying competition interspersed with live entertainment to create an evening of spectacular fun. For more information please view the Magnificent Miss website http://magnificentmiss.com/

Christmas in July Dinner Dance 20 July 2013

Christmas in July Dinner Dance at Soltan Pepper Restaurant in Sunbury

Date: Saturday 20 July

Time: from 6pm

Adults can enjoy a three course dinner with all the Christmas trimmings, goodie bags on arrival and a DJ to entertain you through the night. Bring the kids along to meet Santa and collect a gift and enjoy the festivities.
Adults $50.00 – includes 3 course dinner, goodie bag and entertainment
Children $15 includes 2 course dinner, drink, meet Santa and gift.

For more information contact Emma Dwyer on 0431 285 010

For tickets go to http://www.trybookings.com/CMNH or phone Soltan Pepper on (03) 9740 9990

KidsTown Family Picnic 7 April 2013 - EVENT CANCELLED

Unfortunately this event has been cancelled due to a problem with European wasps in the area. We hope that we might be able to reschedule the event later in the year.

Date: Sunday 7th April, between 10am and 2pm

Venue: KidsTown, Midland Highway, Shepparton http://www.kidstown.org.au/aboutkidstown/

You are invited to attend a free family picnic day coordinated by Cheryl Alexander, our Shepparton branch coordinator and sponsored by the Division 7 Kiwanis Clubs.
All member families, friends and extended family are welcome. A free sausage sizzle will be provided.

To attend, please register by 29th March on http://www.trybooking.com/cggz

For booking queries contact: or 0418 548 879

For event queries contact: Cheryl Alexander on (03) 5825 4005 or

Faces of CHD - remembering our angels and celebrating our survivors

Eli Jack Yves Thomson, Our beautiful heart angel who sadly passed away at only 23 days old from complications of Transposition of the Greater Arteries.
We miss you everyday xxx

Logan was born in 2004 with TGA

This is a picture of our gorgeous boy Lucas Antonio celebrating his 4th birthday last year. Lucas was born on the 3/4/08 with HLHS he has had all 3 sugeries, he had his Fontan in August of last year. Our darling boy is full of life if not for the scar on his chest & getting a little tired sometimes you wouldn’t even tell. Lucas is starting 4 year old kinder this year. He loves his swiming & is a fantastic big brother to his sister Kiara Alexia. It’s been a scary journey for my husband Alex & I we don’t know what the future holds but we take a day at a time & enjoy every minute we have with our precious boy & continue to pray God continues to watch over him. Lucas you’re an amazing strong little boy you bring us so much joy we love you to the moon & back a trillion times infinty & beyond. All our love always beautiful boy Mummy Daddy & Kiara xoxo

This is a photo of 7 month old Tara with her sister Mikayla and brother Jay. Tara has an AVSD which is due to be repaired soon (fingers crossed!). These 3 kids have taught me so much about courage, resilience and the power of a positive attitude.

Our little girl Kimberley had her annual cardiology appointment in January and she is doing just great since having a co-arctation and ASD & VSD repairs at birth. She told her Cardiologist Dr Michael Cheung that when she is big she wants “…..to help sick babies and children”. Kimmi is a gorgeous, active little girl who loves her ballet, gymnastics, piano and swimming lessons. She turned 5 on 11th January 2013 and started Prep this year!
I believe that nothing will stop her from achieving her dreams!

This is Riley William Stewart
Born 14 February 2001 passed away 20 May 2007.
Whilst Riley was alive he lived life to the fullest he was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, he was a very active little boy who was always on the go never mattered how sick he may of been – he never stopped.
He loved his little sister Kara, adored me and loved his puppies he was always hugging and kissing us and telling us he loved us
and I thank him everyday for showing me how to live life and be grateful for the time we have on this earth.
So very lucky to have had Riley for the time I had him. My brave inspirational angel who I will always love and adore
Trudy
PS thank you for allowing me to share my precious boy with you all

This is our little guy Ashton Jay Palcic.
He was born with Tetralogy of Fallot. He had his surgery on 7 November 2012 and did so well he was home after 5 days. He is doing excellent thank you so much to Dr Sarah Hope, RCH and HeartKids and also our wonderful family friends.

Balin O’Callaghan (TGA) playing baseball. Balin had stress test at Monash recently & ran for an amazing 17 1/2 mins, an amazing outcome for heart child! All he wants to do is to run the 5km in the Run 4 the Kids which I run every year to help raise money for The Royal Children’s hospital, he has been given the ok to participate!

Joshua Joubert born 27.02.2011 & diagnosed with HLHS 3 days after

Rye-Leigh born 6/6/2001 – 16/3/2002.
Tetralogy of the Fallot with Absent Pulmonary Valve Syndrome. Miss him ♥

Scarlett Alexandra Dickson. Born on 28 August 2012 with aortic arch and mitral valve issues she has gone through 3 open heart surgeries and still continues to amaze us and her medical team. With crazy hair, a gorgeous and infectious smile, and a feisty spirit that loves defying the odds, Scarlett is simply our precious girl who we can’t wait to bring home to her 2 big brothers.

This is George, he had a mitral valve repair at the RCH on 21.6.12.
George is 11 years old and this was his tenth surgery. He was an absolute superstar, spending only 1 night in ICU, and was out of hospital less than a week later!

William Gonzalez HLHS. A little superstar making it through his first and second stage operations coming home after each one. Making his parents very proud of his strength and will to survive.

Lucas was born with TGA and he had surgery at 3 days old. His condition was un-diagnosed until birth. He is now 14 weeks old and doing well

I was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy at 13, my mother and father where told I’d never make 16, I’m now 22 almost 23 and a mother to a beautiful girl. My heart condition is improving every day. GO US HEARTKIDS proving everyone wrong !!!!!

My heart baby is Molly Marie. She has had three open hearts and she also had a burns accident where she tripped into a camp-fire and got full thickness burns to both hands that she has had two ops for and many more to come as well. (that accident happened a month after she got the all clear for her heart. Truly amazing little girl. She turns 3 in April and has had the toughest start to life. She is loud, confident, clever and kind. I could go on and on. She has a new baby sister and is so caring and wonderful. My Molly is my inspiration for all that is good in the world. This picture is of her ready to go to ‘dancing class’ and ‘smiling’.

Arlo Donnelly
8.9.2012 – 30.12.2012

In tears we saw you sinking
And watched you pass away.
Our hearts were almost broken,
We wanted you to stay.
But when we saw you sleeping,
So peaceful, free from pain,
How could we wish you back with us,
To suffer that again.
It broke out hearts to lose you,
But you did not go alone
For part of us went with you,
The day the angels took you home.

Alexander has a vascular ring, causing tracheomalacia and choking since birth. Much of his little life has been spent in hospitals, heart surgery will be very soon at RCH Melbourne

Cayden had open heart surgery at 3 days old. ASD, VSD and Coarctation of Aorta. We spent 8 weeks all up in the RCH PICU in Melbourne. Cayden is now almost 4 and a very active young boy. Thanks to all at HeartKids you are all fabulous xx

Hoffy’s Burpee Challenge Special Offer

The first 50 people who donate $100 to Hoffy’s Everyday Hero Fundraising Page will receive a fantastic Boxing Bag with Gloves. BE QUICK – don’t miss out!
Please click on this link to donate http://www.everydayhero.com.au/Hoffys_Burpee_Challenge_2013

Supporters Pack

Please support HeartKids in 2013, your $10.00 Supporter’s Pack includes:

2 x Car/Window Stickers
5 x Cards (perfect for Valentines, or any occasion)
1 x CD, Embrace – Anthems of Love
1 x Keyring
4 x HeartKids Tattoos
4 x Blue/Red Heart Stickers
Includes postage and packaging.

Buy one for yourself and send another to a friend or family member.

To order please contact or phone the office 9329 0446 with credit card details.

Geelong Christmas Party

On 1 December, 2012 our Geelong group enjoyed another fun Christmas party. DJ Mitch provided the disco mood. The kids transformed with face painting from Fairy Brittany. There were some great give-aways throughout the day. But as usual the highlight was a visit from Santa who had gift bags for all the children and each family.

I would like to thank everyone that contributed to making this day a success. These include Mitch Pilgrim (AKA DJ Mitch), Big W Geelong (especially Vicki Lenore), Hepburn Springs Crystal Spring Water, Alot of Faces, Alcoa-Point Henry, Adam and Tania Rekman, Tom and Audrey Godfrey and Wayne Gibson for his help with everything (as usual).

Geelong_Christmas_party_photos_2012.pdf

Go That “Cause Shopping”

Heartkids Victoria/Tasmania is pleased to announce a new “Cause Shopping” fundraising partnership with GOthat.com where you will find the best daily deals from top Group Buying sites all in one place. Even better is GOthat donates 50% their proceeds, an average of 5%, to us for every purchase you make. Shop, Live and Give to us at http://www.gothat.com/invite/heartkidsvic

Please share this information with your family/friends/colleagues – the more people shopping for HeartKids the better!

Jump out of a plane for HeartKids - 26 October 2013

Are you interested in skydiving and raising funds for Heartkids Victoria at the same time?

If you are over 18, can raise $1000 for HeartKids then join us and parachute at Barwon Heads.

SKYDIVE FOR HEARTKIDS: Saturday 26th October (10am – 4pm) at Barwon Heads Aero Club, with Melbourne Skydive Centre.

1. You can jump from a variety of heights, right up to 14,000ft.

2. Here’s how you can get involved:

Check out http://www.melbourneskydivecentre.com.au/ for more information

3. To confirm your place in the HeartKids team, pay a non-refundable deposit of $110.00 on our Everyday Hero page on the following link, http://www.everydayhero.com.au/Skydive_for_HeartKids, with password: heartkids

4. Share the link with family members, colleagues and friends, to gather donations. Once your donations reach $1000.00 – your jump is FREE! So jump for us, spread the word and support HeartKids!

Check out Melbourne Skydive Centres, Skydive for Charity http://www.melbourneskydivecentre.com.au/

If you are keen, able and willing then contact for all the details

Bendigo Christmas Party

Our Bendigo families enjoyed a lovely day out in White Hills Botanical Gardens on Sunday 9th December. The weather was a beautiful 24 degree day, just perfect for a barbecue in the gardens. Families enjoyed many park activities such as football and cricket and enjoyed relaxing in the sunshine. We thank Natasha Prendergast for organising this local Christmas party and for her efforts throughout the year.

Bendigo_Christmas_party_photos_2012.pdf

HeartKids Victoria Reports 2011-12

Box Hill Train Day Saturday 13 October 2012

Over a hundred members attended our annual event at Box Hill Miniature Railway. They enjoyed riding the trains after being treated to a sausage sizzle lunch in the park. We were lucky to have Marco the Magnificent entertain the children with his magic and balloon creations. We sincerely thank Brian Mates and his Kiwanis team for sponsoring and coordinating this event for us.

Please view photos of the day by clicking on the file below
Box_Hill_Train_Day_2012.pdf

Candlebark Farm Family Camp 21-23 September 2012

Candlebark Farm was a place of fun and excitement for fifteen families over the weekend of 21st to 23rd September. HeartKids sincerely thank the Division 6 Kiwanis Clubs for sponsoring this family camp and also thank the committee – Bruce, Brian, Shirley, Natasha, Margaret and Lynette – for their work in coordinating the camp. It was a thrill for the kids to have a visit from the Police, SES and CFA.

A big thank you to all the people who volunteered over the weekend, including Cam the photographer, Jenna, Julie, Sarah, Joan, Lauren, Karin, Nerissa, Christian, the Medical team – Jane,Tess and Charlotte – and all the Kiwanis volunteers. We were delighted to have HeartKids Ambassador Athol Guy as the guest speaker on Saturday. He concluded his presentation with the inspiring words from one of The Seekers’ songs – ‘Follow Your Dreams’.

Please view photos of the camp here Candlebark_Farm_Photos.pdf

Heart child Molly and our ambassador Glenn Archer on 7 News

Myuna Farm Day 11 November 2012

The weather was just perfect on the day of our Myuna farm event. Families were able to enjoy the beautiful environment around the farm while they cuddled the baby animals in the nursery, rode the train and pony and played in the playground. Children had their faces painted by the talented Ffyona while Patrick put a smile on the children’s faces with his balloon creations (thanks to the Pass the Parcel team). Marco the Magnificent performed his magic after families were treated to lunch. The Kiwanis Club of Sunbury offers our families this great day out every year and we sincerely thank them along with the staff at Myuna farm.

Special thanks to the Kiwanis club of Sunbury for sponsoring and coordinating the day and to staff at Myuna farm for allowing us to use their venue.

Please view photos of the day by clicking on the file below
Myuna_Farm_Photos.pdf

Christmas Party 2012

Our families certainly had a most enjoyable time at our party held at The Moonee Valley Racing Club. The children and parents enjoyed activities including a visit to Santa, caricature and artist drawings, Dora the Explorer, Patch the Heart Lion and colouring competition, songs by Snuggle Bug from Cuddly Critters and Camp Australia activities such as inflatable lagoon, face painting, crafts, games and sports. The children loved visiting the police car that was on display and talking to the police members. They were able to visit stalls such as Pixi Foto, food stalls and vans. Families were treated to a piece of cake from the spectacular Christmas cake made by The Australian Cake Angels Network.

We thank the following contributors to our party:

The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation – Youth in Philanthropy
The Australian Cake Angels Network
Patch the Heart Lion Team
Representatives of the Australian Cartoonist’s Association
Caterers Cooked Meats Pty Ltd
Carmel Gerdsen as ‘Snuggle Bug’ from Cuddly Critters
TSS Westaff
Brumby’s
Kiwanis Division 6
Victoria Police – Stuart Walton
Lloyds International
Moonee Valley Racing Club
Camp Australia
Pixi Fotos Pty Ltd
Numerous companies who have supplied donations for the raffle hampers

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO:

• Christmas party committee – Margaret Patullo, Shane Larsen, Noel Scott, Cheryl Casley, Amy Emmett, Terry Hopkins, Sarah Currie, Tracy Stanley and Lynette McCoullough
• Photographers – Cameron Mates, Gordon Patullo, Noeleen Henry and Phil Trengove
• Raffle sub-committee members – Jodie Grocock and Justine Franklin
• All the volunteers who helped on the day

• Ted Kitto, HeartKids Ambassador and Christian Williams, Young HeartKids Ambassador

Please view some photos taken on the day:
Christmas_party_photos_2012.pdf

HeartKids Cup Sunday 22 April 2012

During round 4 of the AFL season, on Sunday 22 April, the Sydney Swans and North Melbourne football clubs will play for the HeartKids Cup with the match being televised on Channel 7. The day will be used to raise awareness for childhood heart disease and HeartKids and the spokespersons for each team will be Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh and North Melbourne legend, and HeartKids Ambassador, Glenn Archer. The game will provide us with an opportunity to use television and print coverage of the match to have Jarrad and Glenn speak about CHD and HeartKids.

We will have collectors at the game as well as the Glenn Archer’s HeartKids ad running on the big scoreboard during the game and interviews at half time. Brett Kirk will also mention HeartKids during the game when the commentators cross to him. Tomorrow James Brayshaw will mention the cup and HeartKids on the Footy Show.

We wish to thank the Sydney Swans, North Melbourne Football clubs, Jarrad and Glenn for agreeing to support us in this way and agreeing to make the HeartKids Cup an annual event.

Please visit the North Melbourne website for their article about the match http://www.kangaroos.com.au/News/NewsArticle/tabid/4912/newsId/133413/Default.aspx

Please visit the Sydney Swans website for their article about the match http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/match%20day%20information/tabid/17484/default.aspx

McVeigh launches HeartKids Cup http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/News/NewsArticle/tabid/7106/newsId/133405/Default.aspx

The Age 18 April 2012 http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/no-goodes-no-worries-for-swans-20120418-1×6rw.html

Sky News 18 April 2012 http://www.skynews.com.au/sport/article.aspx?id=740722&vId=

AFL News 18 April 2012 http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/133429/default.aspx?utm_source=AFL+and+club+newsletters&utm_campaign=acb1c95bf1-Runner_R4&utm_medium=email

Herald Sun 19 April 2012 http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/close-to-jarrad-mcveighs-heart/story-fn9eu7in-1226332015353

Daily Telegraph 19 April 2012 http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/afl/sydney-swans-and-kangaroos-playing-for-heartkids-cup/story-e6frexwr-1226331969737

Shepparton Family Picnic 25 March 2012

Families enjoyed a day out at Emerald Bank Adventure Park, Goulburn Valley Highway, Shepparton on Sunday 25th March. The picnic was coordinated by Cheryl Alexander, our Goulburn Valley Coordinator and the Division 7 Kiwanis clubs. The day was a great success with families participating in activities such as jumping castle, pony rides, go karts, rock climbing, train rides and a scrumptious sausage sizzle lunch. HeartKids would particularly like to thank Cheryl Alexander, Evelyn Myers and their families and many Kiwanis Division 7 club members particularly Severin for all the time and effort that went into the organisation of this event.

Please view photos of the picnic
Shepparton_picnic_photos_2012.pdf

FunFlight 13 November 2011

FunFlight is a not-for-profit volunteer organisation that offers children and teenagers touched by a life changing illness or other adversity, a day of aviation-based entertainment, together with their families. Their aim is to give children touched by adversity the flight of their life.

This year events were held at Lilydale, Tyabb, Latrobe Valley, Horsham, Bendigo, Echuca and Barwon Heads. Thirty-one HeartKids families participated and had a magnificent day.

We would like to thank FunFlight, the Aeroclubs and all the volunteers for putting on such a wonderful event.

For further details view http://www.funflight.org/

Royal Children’s Hospital Nationally funded centre for HLHS patients

The Fontan Registry

We would encourage anyone with a Fontan procedure to contact the Registry. Please see the website for further details Fontan Registry

Recent media coverage:

http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/society-and-culture/taking-heart-20110918-1kg5y.html
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/more-news/mia-cowleys-future-a-hole-lot-to-smile-about/story-fn7×8me2-1226140334473

Tassie Muscle and Classic Car Cruise 11 December 2011

Date: Sunday December 11, 2011

Time: 10:30am – 3:00pm

Location: National Automobile Museum of Tasmania

Meeting at 10:30am at the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania, then at 11:30am cruising to Longford Village Green.

Coffee Buzz, Sausage Sizzle, Slot Car Racing

Thanks to our sponsors
National Automobile Museum Of Tas, Bowdens own car care, Shannons Insurance, Coffee Buzz, AutoBarn Launceston, Raceline, Kylie Hamilton Photography,
Midlands Council

Nelson Alexander Foundation Day Auction 27 August 2011

HeartKids on The Block

HeartKids Victoria were fortunate to attend both public open for inspections at Polly & Waz’s house taking gold coin donations. As well as raising funds for HeartKids it was a great opportunity to raise awareness about CHD.

It was wonderful to see Polly & Waz wearing HeartKids polo shirts, our HeartKids balloons scattered around The Block, our volunteers and heart children ratting our donation tins. Our volunteers were featured on Nine News, Polly & Waz were interviewed wearing their HeartKids polos and also appeared in print media wearing the polos. We’d like to pass on our heartfelt thanks to Polly & Waz for their wonderful support.

HeartKids Victoria 1990 - 2011

Commonwealth Bank Community Seeds

HeartKids is the official winner of the Commonwealth Bank Community Seeds campaign and will receive around $60,000 in funding as a result of the tremendous support we received from the community!

Thank you to everyone who voted, and to those who helped us spread the word and generate votes.

This funding will allow HeartKids to further enhance our support services in all states to provide assistance to families at their greatest times of need.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the Commonwealth Bank for showing such community spirit in developing this campaign and for supporting 6 young grass-roots charities. Each charity will benefit greatly from the funds raised through this great campaign. Thank you all!

See the Commonwealth Bank press release regarding the campaign http://www.commbank.com.au/about-us/news/media-releases/2011/060711-results-of-community-seeds-campaign-announced.aspx

Media Coverage

Radio

Glenn Archer interviewed on The Rush Hour 12 July 2012
http://austereo.castmetrix.net/podcast/378302368699192244/1/RushHourThursday12thJuly2012.mp3

Glenn Archer interviewed during the SEN football crosses throughout Victoria, NSW and Tasmania 7 July 2012
Glenn_Archer_SEN_interview.mp3

Glenn Archer interviewed by Steve Vizard on MTR 21 June 2011 Glenn_Archer.mp3

Television

Molly Cook and Glenn Archer on 7 News 5 October 2012

Samuel Hall on 7 News 13 January 2012
http://au.news.yahoo.com/video/vic/watch/27871042/

Christian Williams on “Sunrise” 12 January 2012
http://au.tv.yahoo.com/sunrise/video/-/watch/27856476/one-man-s-olympic-dream/

Maddy Florescu on Channel 7 News 12 October 2011
http://au.news.yahoo.com/video/vic/watch/26903719/

Angela Bishop on “The Circle” 14 February 2011
http://ten.com.au/the-circle-video.htm?movideo_p=40522&movideo_m=91581

Glenn Archer TV Commercial February 2011
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5YAA1vaulo

Nine News 31 August 2010
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/health/7953938/zipper-kid-on-path-to-nor

HeartKids participating in FunFlight day on tv show “Guide to the Good Life” 12 June 2010
http://www.guidetothegoodlife.com.au/archives/456

Print Media

Oliver Parnham, HeartKids Cup, The Mercury 13 April 2013
http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2013/04/13/376864_todays-news.html

Molly Cook, Herald Sun, 30 November 2012
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/mollys-patched-up-good-as-moo/story-e6frf7kx-1226527009533

Gibson Family, Geelong Advertiser, 7 September 2012
http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2012/09/07/349421_news.html

Peter Edwards, Frankston Weekly, 10 July 2012
http://www.frankstonweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/langwarrin-dads-dislike-of-running-to-pay-off-heartily/2617449.aspx

Ashlee London, Moonee Valley Weekly, 10 July 2012
http://www.mooneevalleyweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/moonee-valley-girl-pours-heart-into-helping-sick-kids/2617650.aspx

Kimberley Class, Stonnington Leader, 17 March 2012
http://stonnington-leader.whereilive.com.au/lifestyle/story/heartkids-offers-amazing-support-to-glen-iris-child-with-heart-defect/

Teigan McLean, Moreland Leader, 20 February 2012
http://moreland-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/a-heart-felt-thank-you/

Nathan Smith, Brimbank Leader, 17 February 2012
http://brimbank-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/nathan-has-a-sunshine-heart-for-the-fight/

Tom Franklin, Berwick News, 16 February 2012
http://www.starnewsgroup.com.au/news/berwick/333/story/148860.html

Joanne Arrowsmith, Ranges Trader Mail, 14 February 2012
http://www.starnewsgroup.com.au/mail/ranges-trader/331/story/148622.html

Chayce Howe, Melton Leader, 11 February 2012
http://melton-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/brave-brookfield-boy-still-manages-a-smile/

Jai Barnard, Cranbourne Leader, 10 February 2012
http://cranbourne-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/hampton-park-boy-strengthened-by-heart-felt-support/

Sam Lovett, The Border Mail, 8 February 2012
http://www.bordermail.com.au/news/local/news/general/heartfelt-fundraiser-has-familys-blessing/2447506.aspx

Zeke Larsen, Diamond Valley Leader, 8 February 2012
http://diamond-valley-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/panorama-heights-zeke-is-all-heart/

Callum McCarthy School Starter, Wyndham Leader, 7 February 2012
http://wyndham-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/brave-heart-milestone-for-callum/

World’s Largest Fairy Gathering World Record Attempt, Sunbury Leader 15 November 2011
http://sunbury-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/fairies-all-a-flutter-1/#.TsHHuSb6WsQ.facebook

World’s Largest Fiary Gathering World Record Attempt, Macedon Ranges Weekly, 15 November 2011
http://www.macedonrangesweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/fairies-flying-in/2357561.aspx

Eloise Escott – Cuppa for HeartKids/Mad Hatter’s Campaign, Bayside Leader 12 September 2011
http://bayside-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/a-simple-cuppa-can-show-youre-all-heart/

Queen of Hearts High Tea, Melbourne Weekly 31 August 2011
Melbourne_Weekly_High_Tea.pdf

Zahara Sharp – Cuppa for HeartKids Campaign, Caulfield Glen Eira Leader 24 August 2011
http://caulfield-glen-eira-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/our-little-brave-heart/

Dani Venn – Queen of Hearts High Tea, Herald Sun 21 August 2011
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/confidential/dani-keen-to-cook-up-kids-show/story-e6frf96x-1226118797036

Samuel Day – Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Hastings Leader 16 August 2011
http://hastings-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/hat-tipped-to-childrens-charity-for-its-support/

Cuppa for HeartKids Campaign & High Tea, Manningham Leader 12 August 2011
http://manningham-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/parents-take-heart-at-chloes-welcome-recovery/

Run Melbourne, Wyndham Weekly 13 July 2011
http://www.wyndhamweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/justin-mccarthy-charity-runs-to-heart-of-matter/2225179.aspx

Echuca/Moama Branch Fundraiser Riverine Herald 24 June 2011
http://www.rivheraldechuca.net/readstory/read.asp?id=1223166

Eve Alexiadis Hobsons Bay Leader 13 March 2011
http://hobsons-bay-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/williamstowns-eve-is-a-princess-of-hearts/

Luke & Ethan Davies Herald Sun 28 February 2011
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/ipad/brave-little-brothers-fight-the-odds/story-fn6bfm6w-1226013105048

Monty Perrin Ballarat Courier 24 February 2011
http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/local/news/general/ballarat-baby-monty-perrins-heart-battle/2086883.aspx

White Paper Launch The Age 22 February 2011
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/report-seeks-national-action-on-heart-disease-20110221-1b2hj.html

Flynne Tytherleigh Moreland Leader 16 February 2011
http://moreland-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/coburg-teen-shares-heartfelt-story/

Ben Palmer Whitehorse Leader 16 February 2011
http://whitehorse-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/meet-a-brave-survivor/

Glenn & Madison Archer Herald Sun 14 February 2011
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/footy-great-says-brave-daughter-is-his-inspiration/story-e6frf7kx-1226005415050

Kiara Ward 14 February 2011
SN14Feb11.pdf

Erin Cervelli Sunbury Leader 12 February 2011
http://sunbury-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/sunbury-volunteer-has-a-big-heart/

Caitlin Johnson Berwick Leader 11 February 2011
http://berwick-leader.whereilive.com.au/lifestyle/story/so-lucky-to-have-her-say-narre-warren-parents/

Zeke Larsen Diamond Valley Leader 9 February 2011
http://leader.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/viewer.aspx

Callum McCarthy Herald Sun 8 February 2011
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/nipper-with-a-zipper-is-a-ripper/story-e6frf7kx-1226001818388

Tasmanian Branch Contacts

Burnie

Coffee mornings will be held on the first Monday of each month.
Contact Amanda Riley on 0448 330 611 or email

Hobart

Contact Paul Hyland on 03 62478435 or 0418 561 504 or email for support.

Launceston

Coffee mornings will be held throughout the year. The group fundraises for the Launceston hospital and is currently putting together care packs for families when
they are going through a rough time, which include shampoos, conditioners, soaps, oils etc. Any donations to these packs would be greatly appreciated eg: food vouchers, fuel
vouchers, Telstra pay phone credit, etc.

Please contact Kylie Smith on or (03) 6393 6240 or 0448 983 587 so she can send out local news and updates on upcoming events, such as morning teas and fundraising events.

JMS Diamonds Supporting HeartKids Victoria

JMS Diamonds are HeartKids Victoria supporters please contact them for your next diamond purchase – they will provide diamonds to members at wholesale price as well as donate 5% of that sale to HeartKids.

HeartKids Awareness Day

Melbourne Storm Party

Thirty of our heart children were lucky to share in some Christmas fun with Melbourne Storm stars. The event was part of the NRL Players’ Charity Christmas Parties, hosted by Rugby League’s One Community.

The event was held at the AMF Bowling Centre in Maribyrnong. The children enjoyed lunch with the players, a special visit from Santa and a round of ten-pin bowling with Storm players. The children were thrilled to meet Billy Slater, Ryan Hinchcliffe, Anthony Quinn, Bryan Norrie and Adam Woolnough and other Storm players.

We would like to thank Melbourne Storm for organising such a wonderful event, we really appreciate their ongoing support.

To watch a video of the HeartKids Christmas Party, click on Storm TV http://www.melbournestorm.com.au/default.aspx?s=article-display&id=32552&title=storm-stars-share-christmas-with-heartkids

HeartKids announces new major sponsor - Retail Food Group

RFG franchisees hope to raise a significant amount over the next 12 months from tasty HeartKids Combo’s and customer donations.

Up to $1 from each HeartKids Combo will be donated to HeartKids – a charity devoted to supporting children and their families affected by Childhood Heart Disease and funding much-needed research. The HeartKids Combo varies between the RFG brands and include:
• Donut King: A regular coffee and heart donut
• Michel’s Patisserie: A small coffee and heart cupcake or heart lamington
• Brumby’s Bakeries: A sandwich loaf and four heart cupcakes
• Brumby’s Go!: A regular coffee and heart slice
• bb’s cafe: A small coffee and heart muffin
• Big Dad’s Pies: A pie and heart lamington

HeartKids is Australia’s only charity solely focussed on the needs of children and their families affected by Childhood Heart Disease (CHD)

“Awareness of CHD has been one of our greatest challenges”, HeartKids Australia CEO, Mr McWhannell said.

“People and even governments are unaware CHD is the most common birth abnormality and greatest killer of young Australians. Most people think it’s cancer, yet Childhood Heart Disease takes twice as many lives and more than all other childhood diseases combined”.

RFG’s sponsorship gives HeartKids a fantastic boost towards providing full-time family support to heart kids and their families across the country. Presently our resources only allow for part-time Family Support Coordinators in each of the major children’s hospitals and as a result many families, especially those in regional Australia, receive very little if any support.

Mr McWhannell said that RFG’s support will also help HeartKids advocate for more research in to the causes of CHD, including directly-funded research projects.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support for the HeartKids cause from the whole RFG ‘family’ of corporate management, franchisees and staff”, Mr McWhannell said.

“All 1100 stores are displaying donation boxes and brochures on their counters to help assist raise awareness and financial support for the joint initiative. It’s marvellous.”

“They have made the future brighter for thousands of HeartKids and their families across Australia.”

“We extend a heartfelt thanks to RFG and all the franchisees for this generous and significant level of support.”

Livewire

KEEPING YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A SERIOUS ILLNESS, CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITION OR DISABILITY CONNECTED
Livewire Members (members.livewire.org.au) is a free, safe and fun online community for young people, aged over 10 and under 21, living with a serious illness, chronic health condition or disability.
Livewire is an initiative of the Starlight Children’s Foundation, developed to provide a safe and supportive online space where young people can hang out, connect, share experiences, creatively express themselves and know that they are not alone.

Livewire has just launched Livewire Siblings

Please check out the document below for full details.

Livewire.pdf

HeartKids Victoria Magazines

Latest Edition:

Autumn 2013

Previous Editions:

Summer 2012/13

Spring 2012

Winter 2012 HeartKids_Winter_2012.pdf

• Inaugural HeartKids Cup

• Hospital Highlights

• Inspirational Hoffy

Autumn 2012 Newsletter_Autumn_2012.pdf

• HeartKids Teen Camp

• New RCH Useful Information

• Heart Children Achieving Milestones

Summer 2011-2012 HK_VicTas_Summer_2011-2012.pdf

• New RCH now open

• Awareness Month in February

• Celebrating 2011

Spring 2011 HK_Vic_Tas_Spring_2011.pdf

• Awareness for HeartKids

• New RCH Opening Soon

• ‘Living Life to the Fullest’

Winter 2011 HK_VicTas_Winter_2011.pdf

• 21 Years of Support

• Our King and Queen of Hearts

• Latest Research Grants

Autumn 2011 HKVicVolume21-1.pdf

• HeartKids Awareness Month

• Teen Camp 2011

• Children Reaching Milestones

Summer 2010/11 HKVicVolume20-4.pdf

• Christmas Celebrations

• New State Manager

• HeartKids Awareness Month

Spring 2010 HKVicVolume20-3.pdf

• Your first tour of the New RCH

• Stories celebrating 20 years

• Latest Research, Events and News

Winter 2010 HKVicVolume_20-2.pdf

• Spectacular Fundraising Success

• Latest News on New RCH

• Stories, Events and Celebrations

Autumn 2010 HKVicVolume_20-1.pdf

• Teen Camp 2010

• Latest Research Findings

• Celebrations, News and Events

Summer 2009 HKVicVolume_19-3.pdf.pdf

• Christmas Celebrations

• Ambassador Program Grows

• Celebrations, News and Events

Spring 2009 HKVicVolume19-2.pdf

• Seven New Ambassadors

• Celebrations, Events and Fundraisers

Winter 2009 HKVicVolume19-1.pdf

• Glenn Archer & David Hobson – First Ambassadors for HeartKids

• Cuppa For Kids – Fun and fundraising in July and August

Autumn 2009 HKVicVolume18-4.pdf

• Teen Camp 2009 – Heart kids from around Australia meet for a weekend together

• ‘Stick On A Smile’ – Macadamia joins in with the HeartKids Awareness campaign

Summer 2008-2009 HKVicVolume18-3.pdf

• Team Melbourne – Mega Sports Clinic promotes healthy active lifestyle

• FunFlight 2008 – Scenic joy flights, big smiles for all

Spring 2008 HKVicVolume18-2.pdf

• Royal Children’s Hospital opens Parent Precinct in Cardiac Ward

• Cuppa For HeartKids – Raising Awareness, Raising Funds

Winter 2008 HKVicVolume18-1.pdf

• Run Melbourne – ‘Do some good for yourself while you do good for others’

• Nelson Alexander – Big-hearted Real Estate Agents

Autumn 2008 HKVicVolume17-4.pdf

• Run For The Kids – Funds raised this year to assist children with heart conditions

• VECCI Charity Golf Day – HeartKids to benefit as VECCI’s Charity of Choice

Summer 2007/2008 HKVicVolume17-3.pdf

• Zippa Campaign – HeartKids Zippa Awareness Campaign being held now in the month of February

• VECCI Partnership – Launch of the new partnership featuring HeartKids as The Victoria Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) Charity of Choice

Teen newsletter HeartBeatsSummer2007-08.pdf

Heart Conditions - Detailed information for parents

HeartKids is pleased to offer this new online resource for people wishing to know more about various heart conditions. The site includes details on tests, procedures and operations along with details on health and nutrition, exercise, schooling and adult congenital heart issues.
Heart Conditions – detailed information for parents

Deniliquin camp :  Friday 11th March to Sunday 13th March

HeartKid families enjoyed a relaxing time away at Four Post Camp, Deniliquin courtesy of the Kiwanis Club of Deniliquin on the weekend of 11th March to 13th March 2011.

Families were pampered for the weekend. They received free accommodation, access to the camp facilities, meals provided by Kiwanis, as well as a night out at the RSL Club in Deniliquin while the Kiwanis members looked after their children. Families enjoyed facilities such as rock climbing, fishing, swimming and mini golf. Thank you so much to the members of the Kiwanis Club of Deniliquin for offering our members such an enjoyable weekend away.

Photos show the good time to be had at this camp. …

Watershed Wines Special Offer

Watershed Wines from the Margaret River, are generously donating to HeartKids for every case of wine purchased as listed on the order form.
Includes FREE delivery!
It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up and support HeartKids at the same time.
wine_order_form1.pdf

Newsletter Spring 2008 HKVicVolume18-2.pdf

• Royal Children’s Hospital opens Parent Precinct in Cardiac Ward

• Cuppa For HeartKids – Raising Awareness, Raising Funds