One of those moments is something as simple and essential as inserting an IV line. Almost every person admitted to hospital will need one. It enables fluids, antibiotics, pain relief and life-saving treatment. Yet for many patients, this can become a distressing experience, involving multiple attempts, delays in care, and unnecessary discomfort. We recently caught up with Dr Richard Webster, an Anaesthetist and Medical Education Fellow at North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals. He shared with us that some patients have to endure five, six or even more attempts before a line is successfully placed. Each attempt is painful. Each delay can mean waiting longer for treatment, sometimes at critical moments.  

This is why Well Foundation is proud to support a new ultrasound-guided cannulation training initiative across North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals. Using ultrasound technology, clinicians can see veins beneath the surface, dramatically improving success rates and reducing the need for repeated attempts. With just a small amount of training, success rates can rise to over 90%. But what makes this initiative truly powerful is its ambition. Rather than relying on a small group of specialists, this programme aims to up-skill nurses and doctors across every ward. It means the right skills and the right equipment are available at the bedside when patients need them most. Fewer delays. Fewer failed attempts. Better care, delivered sooner. 

The impact spans the entire hospital. From a child in emergency needing urgent medication, to an elderly patient with fragile veins, to someone undergoing cancer treatment, this approach transforms what can be one of the most challenging parts of their care. And there is something else here that should make us all proud. If fully realised, North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals could be among some of the first health institutions in the world to provide this level of ultrasound-guided care across all wards. A locally driven initiative with the potential to lead internationally. That is the kind of innovation your support makes possible. 

Over the coming months, we are seeking to raise $175,000 to bring this vision to life. Because sometimes, the most powerful improvements in healthcare are the ones patients never see, but always feel. You can donate today for this project by scanning the QR code or going to our website.