A pioneering researcher in children’s oncology and palliative care, clinical nurse and passionate paediatric educator have been honoured for the exceptional and enduring contribution they’ve made to improving the lives of children and young people in Queensland.
Children’s Health Queensland oncology specialist Associate Professor Helen Irving and Nicole Gunston, a clinical nurse from Cairns Hospital are the 2024 recipients of the Children’s Health Queensland Medal of Distinction; a recognition of Queenslanders who’ve made a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of children and young people.
Associate Professor Helen Irving is a pioneering researcher in children’s oncology and palliative care. As a specialist in paediatric oncology, she’s an international expert in the management of solid tumours, such as neuroblastoma. Associate Professor Irving also established the first formalised service for palliative care for children including a 24-hour telephone support service for patients receiving palliative care. This work has also included being an enduring advocate for telehealth - leading pioneering work for patients from regional and remote Queensland over the past 20 years. Her legacy also includes setting up the Clinical Ethics Consultation Service at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and being a foundation member of the Schwartz Rounds steering committee.
Nicole Gunston is regional case coordinator for Far North Queensland’s most medically complex children and young people, providing holistic, culturally sensitive and family centred care. Her dedication extends to all 80 children in the region on the Connected Care Program, including assistance with multidisciplinary team meetings, NDIS advocacy and cross-organisational support with Education Queensland.
Professor Nitin Kapur has also been recognised by a panel of his peers as the Health Hero of the Decade, a special award in 2024 to commemorate the Queensland Children’s Hospital’s 10th birthday.
Professor Nitin Kapur is a respiratory and sleep consultant at the Queensland Children's Hospital, who has led transformative change in paediatric training in Queensland. In his role as Director of Paediatric and Clinical Training, Professor Kapur has advocated for Queensland to have the best paediatric education in the country, as well as flexibility in employment and training for junior doctors and enduring equity and diversity.
Children’s Health Queensland Board Chair Heather Watson said: “The Medal of Distinction acknowledges Queenslanders who’ve made a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of children and young people either through direct health care, research, education, community support, engagement, or advocacy. These remarkable people dedicate their careers and much of their lives to helping Queensland’s sickest children and lead advancements in paediatric healthcare worldwide.”
“It is the collective efforts of passionate, committed, and inspiring health care workers, like Helen, Nicole and Nitin, that brings about meaningful change for Queensland families and creates a healthier future for all children and young people.”
“It’s a very important year for Children’s Health Queensland as we celebrate 10 years of providing the best care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. We thank our award and medal recipients for the difference they have made and continue to make for children and their families across Queensland, Australia and the world.”
18 Queenslanders from across the state were nominated for the 2023 round of the Children’s Health Queensland Medal of Distinction.
For more information about the award, now in its third year, see the CHQ Medal of Distinction page.