Brad’s Ambulance Wish was to play pinball

On the 18 July 2025, Brad’s Ambulance Wish was fulfilled when he played pinball at SA Pinball and Arcade. Ambulance Wish South Australia, in partnership with Central Adelaide Palliative Care Services (CAPCS), brought this special wish to life—creating lasting memories for Brad and his loved ones.

Having grown up playing pinball with family and friends, it had always been one of his greatest joys. From childhood matches to date nights with his wife, pinball was woven into the fabric of his life. As Brad was escorted from the palliative care unit, the ward clerk played Pinball Wizard—a playful and thoughtful send-off that set the tone for the day. SA Pinball and Arcade generously hosted the occasion with a private, discounted booking, providing a welcoming space for Brad, his extended family, and close friends. To make the day even more special, his family surprised him with a custom pinball-themed cake. The arcade echoed with laughter, nostalgia, and a few competitive cheers as Brad—true to form—won the day. “He was the Pinball Wizard today,” his family proudly declared.

“It was an absolute pleasure to have access to Ambulance Wish SA to make Dad’s wish come true,” his daughter shared, smiling through tears. Brad’s final pinball match wasn’t just a game—it was a celebration of a life rich in love, joy, and shared memories. It served as a powerful reminder that even the simplest wishes can hold the deepest meaning.

💙 Special thanks to our incredible Ambulance Wish SA team: Sue, Rachel, Nick, Karen, Alex, Alicia, Shyla, and Russell. Many of these team members are dedicated volunteers, and some are featured in the photos capturing the day.

Brad’s Ambulance Wish was fulfilled in collaboration with Palliative Care South Australia, St John Ambulance SA, Flinders University, Central Adelaide Palliative Care Services (CAPCS), and SA Pinball and Arcade.

📸 Photographer: Russell Millard (partially donated services)
📖 Memory Book Printer: Newstyle Printing (partially donated services)

Our program is proudly supported by community donations, corporate sponsors, and the SA Government (SA Health). We extend our thanks to The Honourable Chris Picton, Minister for Health and Wellbeing, for his ongoing support.

We’d also like to thank all who attended the PCSA National Palliative Care Week Breakfast 2025—your generosity helped sponsor this deeply meaningful wish.

Please consider supporting this incredible program and people like Brad by making a donation, becoming a friend of Ambulance Wish SA, donating, fundraise, sponsor-a-wish or becoming a corporate partner. www.ambulancewishsa.org.au.