“If Pink Ladies lollies go … we riot!”
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It’s colourful comment from Jane Lynch and a snapshot of public reaction to news that a NSW Health policy could see the end of the Pink Ladies lolly counter at Manning Hospital kiosk.
HNELHD is working to comply with new NSW Health guidelines to “make healthy food and drink normal in our health facilities” and confectionery is one of many items in the firing line.
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Pink Ladies president Corinne Lang this week acted to reveal that in the last three years around $57,000 in equipment and items for Manning Hospital staff and patients had been purchased and it’s lolly sales that put the cash in the coffers. She is hoping that Hunter New England Local Health District will act to classify the kiosk area as a fundraising activity, and enable it be exempt from the guidelines.
Community reaction on social media to the story reveals overwhelming support for the sale of confectionery at the kiosk. Comments reveal an emotional connection to the kiosk, the women who work there and show the benefits of a few lollies are worth the intake of sugar and artificial colours and flavours.
Yvette Wilkinson shared that a visit to the kiosk to pick lollies “was something my children looked forward to on the horrible days they sat with their dad whilst he had chemo, not to mention the patient was worse than the kids some days. Pink Ladies do a great job leave them be. People need to be responsible for their own actions!”
When you are stuck in there for extended periods and cannot get out, hearing their trolley can be the best noise ever.
- Brenda French
Brenda French described the work of the Pink Ladies as “amazing”.
“When you are stuck in there for extended periods and cannot get out, hearing their trolley can be the best noise ever. Just being able to have that treat can sometimes make your day. Please don’t take that wonderful option away from patients and family. The lolly counter is by far the best around.”
“Seriously! Everyone knows a little bit of sugar helps the medicine go down. Everyone will be sneaking red frogs in like contraband. What's next? Patting you down and doing bag searches for musk sticks at the doors,” said Remi Murray.
Kristy Clarke revealed her daughter has regular appointments and tests at the hospital and said “the highlight of her visit was getting to see the Pink Ladies and spend her $1 on a few lollies.”
“Why take something like this away when there are so many other aspects to the health system that need reviewing!” she said.