Starship Foundation, New Zealand’s national children hospital, received a $3 million donation from Douglas Pharmaceuticals Limited (DPL), which would enable the hospital to provide its patients with the Radiology magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner.

Sir Graeme Douglas, DPL’s Managing Director, and his wife, Lady Ngaire, expressed their pleasure to take such a step knowing that their donation, being the largest personal donation ever made, will help at least 2,000 children per year.

Before providing the MRI at the hospital, children from Starship Foundation, in need of being scanned, were transferred, under general anesthetic, to the nearest adult hospital or medical school. The patients were accompanied by their doctors and their families, yet, the experience of being at an adult hospital is “intimidating”.

By providing the MRI scanner within the premises of Starship foundation, children would be spared the pains of being transferred to another hospital and would enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the children’s hospital.

Andrew Young, Starship Foundation Chief Executive, declared that the donation is unprecedented within the Auckland hospital’s 18 year history. He also added, “We're so grateful and overwhelmed by Sir Graeme's and Lady Ngaire's generosity as charitable gifts at this level are almost unheard of in New Zealand”.