Fremantle Dockers help celebrate our bravest patients
Congratulations to our seven youngest and bravest patients who received honours at the 2024 A.J Diamond Club Fremantle Dockers’ Bravery Awards.
Nominated by South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) paediatric staff for their great bravery and resilience, the seven patients were celebrated at a formal event held at the Fremantle Dockers Club in Cockburn Central.
Each recipient was awarded a medal, certificate, and team store voucher from a Fremantle Dockers AFLW player.
2024 Bravery Award recipients
Alivia Herbert was admitted to Rockingham General Hospital (RGH) with septic hip. She has since had multiple procedures and is working with RGH multidisciplinary team members to recover.
Brodie Mackenzie was admitted to RGH with abdominal pain, fever, and an infection. He spent five days in hospital and had to have intravenous antibiotics. He showed immense courage during his stay.
George Bochenek presented to Fiona Stanley Hospital (FSH) with fevers, frontal headache, swelling on his eye, photo sensitivity and vomiting. It was revealed that he had a bacterial infection and had to stay in hospital with for testing and antibiotic treatment.
Henry Riggall was flown to FSH via the Royal Flying Doctor Service from Albany after a quad bike accident. He underwent six surgeries to repair wounds and fractures to his hand. Unfortunately, his right ring finger could not be saved and had to be amputated. He has showed great resilience during his ordeal and has since gotten back to riding his quadbike.
Siobhan Thomson developed an infected ingrown toenail on her right big toe which resulted in her needing three surgeries at FSH. After being discharged she had three months of outpatient rehabilitation.
Valentina De Vicente Capua presented to RGH at Christmas time with vomiting and abdominal pain and was diagnosed with appendicitis. She spent most of her summer school holidays in hospital. She has since recovered but still attends hospital for ongoing surgical review.
Sonny Furze was flown via RFDS to FSH after he walked into a glass door. He received multiple lacerations to his face, shoulder and leg. Although he was very distressed, he was very cooperative and brave during his hospital stay.
Speaking at the event, SMHS Acting Chief Executive, Kate Gatti, said the awards are a highlight every year.
“I feel extremely privileged to be here today to acknowledge the bravery of the young people in the room,” said Kate.
“Our paediatric staff take great pride in nominating children and young adults who have been treated at our hospitals for these awards.
“Today is not only about the kids – the mums, dads, carers, siblings and grandparents all deserve recognition, too."
The awards – a long-standing partnership between SMHS and the Fremantle Dockers – are in their 29th year.
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