The inaugural Lilyroo Ride returned to an emotional welcome at the Women’s on Saturday morning after completing the1156km seven-day journey from Adelaide. The Lilyroo Ride had set out on Easter Sunday to raise awareness and money for our Newborn Intensive and Special Care (NISC) unit.
The Lilyroo riders, led by Pete Lockyer, were greeted by dozens of delighted family and friends including a very proud Kristie Lockyer. Pete and Kristie set up the Lilyroo Fund in memory of their daughter Lily who was born at the Women’s on 26 March 2014.
“Despite the world class care of the Women’s NISC Lily was born too young to lead a long and healthy life,” the couple said.
“Nicknamed Lilyroo by her eldest cousin, Lily’s legacy will live on through the Lilyroo Fund and ensure that preterm babies and their families receive the same incredible care and compassion that Lily and we received at the Women’s.”
Pete and Kristie announced on Saturday morning that the ride had helped to raise an amazing $157,583.66 for the Women’s NISC. The Lilyroo Fund will now hold an annual bike ride for the Women’s NISC.
"Lily's legacy will now live on forever in the fabric of this hospital because of you," the Executive Director of the Women's Foundation Katrina Wilkins said.
A/Prof Carl Kuschel, Medical Director of Neonatal Services for the Newborn Intensive and Special Care unit at the Women's said he was astounded, amazed, incredulous and in awe of what the Lilyroo Fund had achieved.
“I am constantly blown away by the connection that families have with the Women’s neonatal unit, and that they wish to give back in so many special ways.
“To have seen this fundraising venture grow and grow has been a testament to the commitment of the organisers and also to the community in giving to the Women’s in recognition of the work we do.”
Pete and Kristie said that after an incredibly emotional arrival at the Women's, a final evening function was held at The Beach Hotel, Albert Park. They were joined by family and friends who had supported the inaugural Lilyroo Ride team.
“It was a lovely end to an incredible seven day journey,’ they said.