For more than a decade, the soothing sounds of Costa's guitar have been played at the Redland Residential Care facility, and more recently they are offering a moment of calm to patients, visitors, and staff at Redland Hospital.
Costa’s journey with music started in 1962 when he picked up the guitar and began learning by ear, immersing himself in different genres from around the world. He is a self-taught guitarist who has been volunteering his musical talents at the hospital.
“Music has always fulfilled my emotional needs,” Costa said. “I’ve played in bands and explored styles from all over - Brazilian, country, you name it.
"People often stop to listen and thank me and patients and visitors tell me how the music makes them feel less stressed while they’re here.
"It’s nice to see how music can make someone’s day a little better.”
Though Costa modestly describes his guitar as "just a little cheap one", it echoes beautifully around the halls and brings a little joy to everyone's day.
Beautiful blankets for Bayside's babies
Pamela Tatt, founder of Knit4charities Inc, and her friend Joan Cosgrove, recently visited our Special Care Nursery with a special delivery - blankets for Bayside babies.
During the past year, Pam and her team have been donating beautiful hand-knitted blankets and quilts to our tiniest patients.
These colourful blankets add a homely touch to the babies’ beds, but also hold deep sentimental value.
Registered Nurse Sharon Grobler said some mothers slept with the blankets before wrapping their babies in them.
"It brings our mums a sense of comfort that they can help to strengthen the bond between themselves and their babies, in what can be a very clinical environment," she said.
Pam started Knit4charities Inc more than 20 years ago and is responsible for thousands of knitted and quilted items over the years.
A big thank you to Pam, Joan, and the entire Knit4charities team for their kindness and generosity!