It’s a terrific example of “mutual respect” when two much-loved local charities join forces for a great cause.

And, that was certainly the case this week with Emma’s Warriors chipping in $25,000 towards Sleapy’s Foundation’s pet project, a courtyard at John Hunter Hospital’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

The organisation, led by Peter and Robynn Sleap, recently pledged $536,000 to construct the tranquil locale for young patients, families and carers at the New Lambton Heights-based medical precinct.

And, when complete, it will form part of the latest acute services building at JHH, offering a calming outdoor environment to support the emotional wellbeing of critically-ill children aged 0 to 16 years.

On hearing the news, it didn’t take Emma’s Warriors long to lend a financial hand.

Founded by teenager Emma Walsh, who was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2022, the not-for-profit’s goal is to make life a little bit easier for other tweens and teens who are also going through a difficult health crisis.

Together with her parents, Brendan and Alex, and siblings, Will and Isabelle, she set up the charity as a way to pay forward the love and support she received throughout her wellness journey.

“It was a no-brainer for us… we’ll do anything we can to help Sleapy and his foundation to ensure the PICU venture happens,” Mr Walsh said.

“The main reason is Emma has spent more than 300 nights in the ward at the hospital during her treatment and chemotherapy.

“So, she’s been at the PICU a fair bit, too.

“We’ve also had close friends there.

“After being in that situation many times ourselves, we’re certainly aware of the importance of having a nice environment where the family can come in and hang out with their child in a relaxed setting.

“Sometimes, when you’re visiting a very ill or vulnerable kid, the sterileness of a hospital is not always conducive to feeling your best.”

I remember being at the hospital and one of the social workers came in and handed me a cheque, for a couple of thousand dollars, from Sleapy’s Foundation. I burst out crying because we were at such a low point.

Brendan Walsh

Mr Walsh said he hoped the alliance between Emma’s Warriors and Sleapy’s Foundation would be long-lasting moving forward.

“We’ve had a bit of a connection with Sleapy and Robynn for 12-to-18 months,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.

“But, we’d love to make it a true partnership.

“We’re both fighting the same war and trying to help the same people, so it makes sense.

“Plus, Sleapy’s known for his footy background and I’m a mad Lakes United man,” he added with a laugh.

“Seriously, what his foundation does is incredible.

“We were probably three or four months into Emma’s treatment… and she was in a very, very bad way.

“To be honest, I’d just sold my car to get some money because Alex and I were both off work.

“I remember being at the hospital and one of the social workers came in and handed me a cheque, for a couple of thousand dollars, from Sleapy’s Foundation.

“I burst out crying because we were at such a low point.

“Emma’s life was under threat pretty much on a weekly basis.

“To us, $2,000 back then was like $50,000; it enabled us to pay Emma’s fees for a few months.

“So, the money meant the world to us.

“And, as a family, we’ve never forgotten that.

“It was great to finally meet Sleapy and Robynn in person a little while ago… and we’ve stayed in touch ever since.

“They’re fabulous people.”

Mr Sleap said he was moved by Emma’s Warriors’ generous donation.

“What can you say… I’m blown away?” he explained.

“For another charity to support us in this way, it’s brilliant.

“I can’t thank them enough.

“There should be more collaborations like this because we all have the same goals: to assist people as much as possible.

“Robynn and I are so passionate about the PICU project.

“When the opportunity presented itself to us, we jumped at the chance.

“Our foundation is all about creating positive experiences for families during challenging times.

“Even though this endeavour is the largest financial commitment in our history, we’re excited.

“Working alongside Hunter New England Local Health District, Health Infrastructure, Multiplex and other stakeholders has been fantastic.

“We want children and their families to find moments of peace and comfort.

“So, providing a beautiful space like this is a meaningful way to make a positive impact.”

Sleapy’s Foundation will continue its fundraising feats at its second annual Gala Ball at NEX on Saturday 5 April from 6pm to 11.30pm.

“We had such a blast last year, we had to host another formal function,” Mr Sleap said.

“So, dust off your best gear and step into our Enchanted Garden.

“Tickets are $240 each or a table of 10 is $2,300.

“That includes a three-course meal, five-hour beverage package, auction, raffle and entertainment.

“They’re still available, but you’ll need to get in quickly… by Friday 28 March.

“All money we raise will go towards the PICU project.

“We guarantee everyone a fun time while raising funds for a precious undertaking.”

Purchase your tickets at http://tix.yt/sleapys-foundation-gala-2025

For further information about Sleapy’s Foundation and its fundraising activities, go to www.sleapysfoundation.com.au

• The Newcastle Weekly is the media partner of Sleapy’s Foundation

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