69-year-old Susan was tramping with her brother-in-law and husband in the bush…
…when her foot slipped.
“I can’t remember exactly what happened,” Susan says, “but I looked down and saw my foot hanging to one side. I knew instantly that I had broken my leg.”
There was no way Susan could walk out of the track with a broken leg. It dawned quickly on the group that they had no way to call for help. No Personal Locator Beacon, and no cell reception.
Desperate to help his wife, Susan’s husband ran non-stop to the end of the track, jumped in his car, and drove to where he could get reception. As soon as he came within range, he dialed 111.
It’s moments like this when our supporters make such a BIG difference. Because of people like you, your Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter crew were able to take to the skies a few minutes after the call came in…
…which was a lot quicker than even Susan expected.
She told us, “I reconciled myself to a long wait until rescue services came. When we heard the helicopter overhead, we didn’t realise it was for us. When I realised they were here for me, I cried with relief.”
Because of the dense bush, there was nowhere for the rescue helicopter to land. So instead, Critical Care Flight Paramedic (CCFP) James was expertly winched down to where Susan was on the ground.
“Navigating above the dense bush to find patients is always a challenge, winching Susan out was tricky. The Pilot and Crewman deserve all the credit!” says Critical Care Flight Paramedic (CCFP) James.
As you can imagine, Susan was profoundly thankful that CCPF James was there to help.
“He was very reassuring and calming through the whole process. I followed his instructions, put my arms around him, and closed my eyes. I was very relieved that someone was looking after me.”
Your Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter crew worked quickly to winch Susan up to the rescue helicopter before flying her straight to Wellington Hospital.
Susan told us, “When I was at Wellington Hospital, I could hear the rescue helicopters landing day and night with amazing frequency. I had no idea until then how often they are called upon.
“I can’t begin to imagine how difficult my rescue would have been without the rescue helicopter. Thank you so much!” says Susan.
Recovery for Susan is slow but steady and she is now on the road to mobility. She will never forget the incredible rescue that people in her community made possible.
Our wonderful supporters are in every rescue we do at the Grassroots Trust Rescue Helicopter. To everyone who helped make Susan’s rescue possible: Thank you so much!
We can’t do what we do without you.
