Queensland Milk Bank celebrates five years of saving the state’s tiniest patients
The Queensland Milk Bank at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) celebrated its 5th birthday with a new name, a pink cake and a continued commitment to saving precious little lives.
The bank, now the largest and fastest growing in Australia, currently supplies milk to 11 other hospitals around the country.
Speaking to the crowd of staff, donors, mums and bubs, RBWH Director of Neonatology Dr Pieter Koorts said the bank had come a long way since its early beginnings when it was just a single freezer and a handful of donors.
“Since we started, the service has received over 4200 litres of milk donations from over 400 donors for over 1400 premature babies all over the country,” Dr Koorts said.
“We know using donor milk increases survival rates by almost 70 per cent, so this service is absolutely critical.”
Queensland Milk Bank manager Karen Langford said the success of the bank was dependant on the incredible generosity of mothers.
“This bank has received donations from over 400 women, and I thank every single one of them,” Karen said.
“Some mothers have lost their own babies and give during a period of great loss, while other mums have used this service and want to give back.
“And then there are other generous mothers in the community who give for the sake of giving. I can’t overstate how important your gift is to us and so many families around the state.”
The anniversary marks a key milestone for the service, and its continued growth will only further cement its position as a true provider for little Queenslanders.