Determined youngster pushes boundaries despite challenges
29 January 2021
5
min read
Diagnosed with spina bifida in the womb, 11-year-old Joshua has defied the odds throughout his young life, with participation in sports like sailing, swimming, wheelchair basketball and motocross, just some of his great achievements.
Joshua’s competitive nature has seen him push boundaries and live life to the fullest, but behind the scenes, he has had to make regular visits to Queensland Children’s Hospital for multiple surgeries and appointments.
Life in and out of hospital is tough, but one special person, Angie Brooks, was able to make life a little easier for the family. Operating as a family liaison manager, she supported Joshua through everything from regular hospital visits to procedural anxiety.
As a result of that selfless work, Joshua, and his mum, Abbi, nominated Angie for the Juiced TV Super Hero Awards, supported by QSuper.
“We met Angie when we were filming with Juiced TV over three years ago. She came and introduced herself to us,” Abbi said.
“Since then, she has kept in contact, included us in events and reached out when we have been admitted or are at the hospital for appointments. Angie always makes us feel welcome no matter how rushed off her feet she is."
She’s the most warm, bubbly person with such a motherly instinct.”
When thinking about hospital workers, doctors and nurses are usually quickly acknowledged. But there are diverse roles within any hospital, which are vital to supporting patients and families through their hospital journey, including those within the Children’s Hospital Foundation’s patient and family services team.
An initiative of QSuper, the Juiced TV Super Hero Awards shine a light on these medical and support staff – the doctors, nurses, volunteers and others who selflessly dedicate themselves to the wellbeing of others.
Going the extra mile
When Abbi and Joshua met Angie, her role included finding talent for Juiced TV’s episodes, engaging with volunteers and helping families navigate their time in hospital.
She consistently went the extra mile to support Joshua and Abbi and even connected Abbi with another parent going through similar challenges, with both parties’ permission.
Humbled by the nomination, Angie said she had been inspired by Joshua’s strength and resilience, along with his mum’s passion of supporting his development and providing him with every opportunity.
I feel flattered when families take the time to recognise what we do when they’re going through so much,” Angie said.
“I really look forward to seeing Josh take on all the opportunities that his mum has worked towards for him and I can’t wait to see how far he goes.”
View the latest Juiced TV episode.