Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital

Did you know a disease is considered "rare" when it affects fewer than 2,000 people worldwide? Today marks rare disease day and with over 6,000 rare diseases out there, finding effective treatments is a huge challenge.

A/Professor Lata and the team at RBWH and UQCCR are investigating whether spider venom could help treat some of those rare genetic diseases. 🕷️🔬

As a Neurologist and researcher at RBWH, A/Prof Lata shares the profound impact rare genetic diseases have on patients.

"I have an epilepsy patient with a rare genetic condition caused by a KCNH1 mutation, diagnosed in only around 100 people globally. Our team is researching peptides derived from spider venoms with the hope they can target the cause, reduce the number of seizures and improve quality of life." ... See MoreSee Less

Crikey! RBWH’s got its own Steve Irwin! 🐍🌿 Say g’day to Brad, RBWH’s new Garden and Pest Coordinator—or as we like to call him, our very own wildlife warrior!

Since joining the team in September, Brad has taken on the wildest role at RBWH, wrangling everything from wayward critters to overgrown greenery.

“I love the role, no two days are the same!” Brad said.

Leading a team of five gardeners, Brad doesn't just look after plants, he’s the go-to guy for handling all wildlife that finds its way onto the RBWH campus. Whether it’s relocating a rogue reptile or finding the perfect spot for new greenery, he’s always on the move, keeping the hospital grounds safe and thriving.

With a passion for plant life and a knack for problem-solving, Brad is always working on new projects to keep RBWH growing! 🌱 ... See MoreSee Less

RBWH Nurse Unit Manager, Donna has been driven by her love for neonatal care. She has travelled far and wide, from Papua New Guinea to the remote corners of Queensland, and even to Tonga, teaching others about the critical care tiny patients need. 👶💙

"It gives you a real perspective on what you can do, even with limited resources in remote parts of the world and reminds us of the amazing services nurses and midwives provide," said Donna.

After 25 years of nursing, Donna is now the Acting NUM of the ICN Unit at RBWH, leading with the same compassion and dedication that has shaped her entire career. ... See MoreSee Less

Jarrod is RBWH’s Acting Cultural Capabilities Officer (CCO) and is a proud Kalkadoon, Pitta Pitta, and Kaytetye man with deep cultural connections across Queensland. Jarrod is passionate about embedding a holistic view of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health within the workforce. 🤗

“My role is about collaborating with staff to build cultural capability while ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and community perspectives are at the forefront,” said Jarrod.

Since joining Metro North in 2013, Jarrod has worked across TPCH, the Deadly Start Program, STARS, and the First Nations Health Office. His journey has opened his eyes to existing healthcare inequities and the impact of community-focused work.

“Queensland Health offers so many opportunities in both clinical and non-clinical settings,” he said.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without the support of my loved ones, community, and past and present colleagues. Working with and for the community is truly rewarding.” ❤ ... See MoreSee Less

As George and his wife Denise were about to get a cab to the airport, George had a haemorrhagic stroke. He needed immediate surgery and was rushed to RBWH. Less than three weeks later George has been making remarkable progress on the ward at STARS.

"At first I couldn't remember even the first few letters of the alphabet. My wife printed it out and put it on my board so I could practise," said George.

"The staff have been amazing. I have daily and sometimes twice daily appointments with the occupational therapists, speech pathologists and physios. They are all helping me get back on track to where I was before the stroke." ... See MoreSee Less