Elderly Local Praises Hospital's Lifesaving Care

Helen Zaglas is living proof of a miracle, but she credits much of her survival to the outstanding care and dedication of the Mackay Base Hospital staff.

Described as a “walking miracle,” by many, Mrs Zaglas has faced an extraordinary number of health battles, yet her gratitude for the hospital’s exceptional service remains ever-present.

“The staff at the Base Hospital are very good at what they do,” Mrs Zaglas said.

“They’ve helped me so much over the years, and they’ve been amazing.

“I just want people to know that they really do their best and deserve the utmost recognition for it.”

Her most recent health scare in October last year turned her world upside down, but with the support of the health workers at Mackay Base Hospital, Mrs Zaglas has been given every opportunity to make a remarkable recovery.

While using her walker one afternoon, a loose grip caused her to fall, leading to a traumatic brain injury. The fall was so severe that it caused intense internal bleeding and left a lasting scar on her head. Thanks to the professionalism and kindness of the nurses and carers at Mackay Base Hospital and Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS) Mackay, Mrs Zaglas has made an incredible recovery.

Now undergoing speech therapy through CHATS, Mrs Zaglas is quickly regaining her ability to communicate.

Over the years, Mrs Zaglas has survived double bowel cancer, breast cancer, and a heart attack at just 39 years old. Through every health battle, she says the hospital staff have gone above and beyond to provide the best possible care.

Mrs Zaglas’ strength and positive outlook on life has been an inspiration to those around her.

Friends jokingly refer to her as “Toyota-tough,” marvelling at her ability to bounce back after such an intense fall. Among her biggest supporters is her lifelong friend, Carole Ross, who has been by her side for over 40 years.

“We’ve been friends for years,” Ms Ross said.

“She’s a bit of a wild child…but she’s come a long way, and she’s a walking miracle.”

Ms Ross first crossed paths with the Zaglas family in her 20s while working at their café, and she continues to visit Helen regularly to this day.

Ms Ross even sat by Helen’s bed throughout her recovery and was equally impressed by the hospital’s care.

“The staff were wonderful,” Ms Ross said.

“Even the food was good, considering how much they make for so many patients.”

Through it all, Mrs Zaglas refuses to view her challenges as setbacks. Instead, she sees them as opportunities to embrace resilience and find joy, even in the darkest moments.

“Complaining only makes your sickness worse,” she said.

“You have to have a good outlook on life…where you can smile about it.”

Having conquered countless challenges in her lifetime, Mrs Zaglas is on a mission to share the brighter side of life and express her gratitude for the Mackay Base Hospital, whose exceptional care she believes deserves its moment in the spotlight.

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Mrs Zaglas wearing the helmet gifted by her cherished gardener John, from Lawns & Ladders

Helen Zaglas with life-long friend Carole Ross. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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