15 June 2026

The memory of a beloved wife, mother and grandmother will continue to bring comfort to others, thanks to a heartfelt donation made in her honour.

To mark the first anniversary of Zlata’s passing, her husband Marko and daughter Natasha, with contributions from family and friends, donated 50 copies of A Leaf Called Grief to NALHN through the Northern Healthcare Volunteer Association.

Zlata, whose name translates from Croatian to English as Gold and therefore known by many as ‘Goldie’, received care from a wide-range of disciplines at NALHN, over the past few years.


Image: Pictured (L-R): Matthew Halman, NALHN Spiritual Care Practitioner, accepting the generous book donation from Zlata’s family Marko and Natasha, with Michelle Hart, Volunteer Coordinator with the Northern Healthcare Volunteer Association.

In recognition of the care and support their family received, her loved ones wanted to “give something back” to the hospital and community.

“We wanted to thank the staff for their kindness, care and empathy that was shown during this time,” Natasha said. “The dignity shown during mum’s final stages is not forgotten, they took the time to get to know her.”

“I hope these books bring a sense of comfort to others, whether it’s a parent that’s at the end of life, a grandparent, or a loved one.”

NALHN Spiritual Care Practitioner Matthew said the donation was a beautiful example of how kindness can emerge from loss.

“Grief can often feel isolating but stories and resources like these remind people that they are not alone,” said Matthew.

“This thoughtful donation will help us support patients and families during some of life’s most challenging moments.”

The books will be distributed to divisions across our network to give to patients, families and carers during times of grief and loss.