“In the Intensive Care Unit, our patients are fighting to survive. During this time, the stress and challenges typically fall to the families of these patients,” said Megan Youngson, Program Director of Intensive Care Services at Grampians Health. “The patients themselves are often unaware of their circumstances – they may not be fully conscious or may be in a coma.  

"Families need to make life-changing decisions on behalf of their loved ones. These decisions are made within the ICU, which is a very foreign environment and intimidating to most people. There are a lot of machines, attachments, and often, a lot of noise. 

“Our team receives specialist training to provide wrap-around care for the families. This enables us to support them through very complex conversations and long periods of waiting. During this very stressful time, our families need a space where they can rest, recharge, and absorb and reflect on decisions they are required to make, whilst still remaining close to their loved ones. That is why this Christmas, we are requesting the community’s support to help us improve our family waiting room in the ICU.” 

For Federation University lecturer Dr Jacob Dye and his partner, Kathrine, raising funds for the family waiting room at the ICU is an initiative close to their hearts.  

In March 2023, 24 hours after he received a scratch from his new puppy, Dr Dye was in the ICU at Ballarat Base Hospital in an induced coma and complete organ failure due to sepsis. Kathrine anxiously waited, and his extended family travelled to Ballarat. They were told he was likely to die. 

Dr Dye explained the experience was trying one for himself and his family. 

“For me, entering the ICU was a whirlwind. I was rushed in from the Emergency Department and over the next 24 hours I remember very little before being put into an induced coma. However, for my partner and my loved ones, the ICU began and ended with the waiting room. It was an anxiety provoking place where they awaited information, were visited by doctors and nurses, and sought comfort from each other. 

“While almost dying was extremely traumatic for me, in the parts where I was most sick, I was mostly unaware. It was during these times that visiting the ICU most heavily impacted those that I love.” 

Three weeks later Dr Dye was discharged from the ICU, but his journey to recovery is ongoing. As an academic at Federation University, he has expanded his research on the psychological impact of traumatic events. He is now working with Grampians Health ICU staff to understand the impact of ICU admissions and how to best support patients and their families. 

Ben Kelly, Chief Operating Officer Hospitals at Grampians Health, encouraged the Ballarat community to support the 2024 Christmas Appeal. 

“I am extremely proud of the level of care our ICU staff provide every day to our patients and their families. The emotional toll on families cannot be underestimated. The research that Dr Dye, his students and our ICU staff are undertaking will further support the care we can provide. 

“This Christmas, I would encourage you to remember those families whose loved one is in the ICU. Donations to our Christmas Appeal will help us improve the support we can give our families.” 

Donations can be made at https://ghb-xmas-appeal-2024.raiselysite.com/