
It was an act of kindness by Dutch ambulance driver Kees Veldboer that inspired a global movement which is having a huge impact on the lives of terminally ill South Australians.
While working as a paramedic in Rotterdam, Mr Veldboer met a man named Mr Stefanutto whose only wish was to sail on a ship one last time before he died.
Mr Veldboer helped Mr Stefanutto make that last trip, and the seeds for what would become Stichting Ambulance Wens were sown.
From those humble beginnings in The Netherlands in 2007, Ambulance Wish has expanded around the globe, operating in Germany, England, Sweden and Australia, among other countries.
Queensland led the way Down Under, followed by WA. South Australia’s program has been under development since 2021, and in 2023 a formal collaboration was formed between Palliative Care SA (PCSA), St John SA and Flinders University, with PCSA as the lead agency.
Over the past few months, Ambulance Wish SA has made several last wishes come true, including the stories below.
Di’s Ambulance Wish was to meet her beloved Port Adelaide Football Club
On the 13 August, Di’s Ambulance Wish was fulfilled when she met players from her beloved Port Adelaide Football Club.
Ambulance Wish South Australia, in a new partnership Motor Neuron Disease SA, brought this special wish to life – creating lasting memories for Di and her loved ones.
Di has been a passionate Port Adelaide supporter her entire life, following both the SANFL and AFL teams with unwavering dedication.
One of her most treasured possessions is a hand-knitted Port Adelaide blanket from 2009, lovingly made by a friend from her bingo group. It features the names of every player from that season, a true symbol of her loyalty.
Di drove to the Port Adelaide Football Club training session in the Wish Ambulance, where she was all smiles, laughter and joy. She posed for photos, shared stories and connected with many players, including club legends Travis Boak and Chad Cornes.
Di told the Wish Team that she was especially thrilled to meet Boak, describing him as "a beautiful person and easy on the eye".
Although Motor Neuron Disease makes it difficult for Di to speak, she communicated using technology - and her spirit shone through. There was plenty of laughter, and Di even joked, "I used to do the Nutbush, now I do the MND shuffle!"
Players chatted warmly with Di and her family, signing a guernsey and her Ambulance Wish Bear, Pete, and sharing in the fun. Di’s cheeky charm lit up the day, and the smiles were endless.
Di summed it up perfectly: "All of it was wonderful. A wonderful day. Thank you."
Ann’s Ambulance Wish was to have a Lions 360 experience at Monarto Safari Park
On July 24, Ann’s wish was fulfilled when she experienced a Lions 360 Encounter at Monarto Safari Park.
Ambulance Wish South Australia, in partnership with Northern Adelaide Palliative Care Services, brought this special wish to life, creating lasting memories for Ann and her loved ones.
Three years ago, Ann received a gift from her daughter – a voucher for the Lions 360 experience at Monarto Safari Park.
It was a heartfelt gesture that was put on hold while Ann underwent treatment. In late July, Ann was finally able to go to Monarto Safari Park.
As they drove in the Wish Ambulance toward Monarto, they shared cherished stories of family zoo visits whilst vibing to a specially created soundtrack that jumped from Icehouse to Michael Jackson.
The adventure ahead was not just something to tick off her bucket list – it was a beautiful, soul-stirring experience.
From the moment Ann arrived at the Lions 360 Dome for Australia’s only 360-degree lion experience, the connection was electric.
The lions, majestic and wild, came to greet her as though sensing her presence. One lion, Mshindi – her name meaning champion – seemed to share an unspoken bond with her.
Ann immersed herself fully, surrounded by the fierce grace of these large animals, feeling not fear but awe.
It was more than just a safari – it was creating family memories and a wish finally fulfilled.
"Those cats are so charming and so gorgeous," Ann later shared.
Brad’s Ambulance Wish was to play pinball
On July 18, 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, brought this 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 The Who’s classic 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.
To find out more about Ambulance Wish South Australia visit www.ambulancewishsa.org.au