Nixon and his family with their dinosaur donation at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

Dinosaur magic appears at Port Macquarie Base Hospital

Dec 11, 2024

The Port Macquarie Base Hospital Paediatric Unit recently received a donation that brought smiles to patients and staff.

Little Nixon, a young visitor from Mackay, spent three weeks in the unit after suffering a fractured femur. During his stay, Nixon was in traction for more than two weeks before transitioning to a red hip spica cast of his choosing.

Nixon and his family, who run the touring dinosaur exhibit Jurassic Creatures, became part of the hospital family during this challenging time.

Despite the strain of balancing their exhibit’s Port Macquarie tour and Nixon’s hospital stay, the family showed incredible resilience and generosity.

Upon Nixon’s discharge, the family donated a treasure trove of dinosaur-themed toys for the Unit’s young patients to enjoy.

Among the gifts were soft dinosaur toys with heartfelt messages for our staff, a gesture that deeply touched everyone involved in Nixon’s care.

The family has since returned to Mackay for Nixon’s follow-up care, but their visit to Port Macquarie left an unforgettable mark on the Unit, said Nurse Unit Manager Darlene Malineack,

“Nixon’s infectious smile, boundless energy, and love for all things dinosaurs have left us with fond memories and new resources to comfort other young patients,” Darlene said.

“We thank Nixon and his family for their generosity and wish them all the best as they continue their journey.”