It’s frightening to think what could’ve happened to Shan if it wasn't for generous donors who make this life-saving flight possible.
It had been a terrible crash.
Shannon had multiple broken bones, and his 23-tonne, 8-wheeler concrete pump truck (and livelihood) was a mangled wreck.
Just a few moments earlier, an oncoming car had slammed into Shannon’s vehicle as he was driving to work. The momentum of the crash was so intense that his truck had slid 25 metres down the road.
Thankfully, someone soon pulled up dialed 111.
If it wasn’t for the rescue helicopter, Shan would’ve faced a prolonged, bumpy drive to the nearest ICU – which would’ve put his critically endangered life at grave risk.
But because of our amazing supporters, it wasn’t long before the sound of whirring chopper blades could be heard in the distance… the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter soon landed nearby.
"It's incredible to think how many lives are being saved today, thanks to the work our supporters are making possible." Sam - Base Manager/Pilot.
Shan doesn’t remember much from that day. He can recall being lowered out of the truck, and being lifted into the rescue helicopter – but after that, everything turned white.
Even as he lay unconscious, Shan was receiving some of the best possible care in the country. Our highly-skilled Critical Care Flight Paramedic was right there, providing an ICU standard of care to Shannon at the scene, and throughout the whole flight to hospital.
Since then, Shan’s had 17 surgeries, 4 blood transfusions, an amputated finger, and had multiple plates and screws put throughout his body. His leg even had to be fused straight.
But despite his serious injuries, Shan is now well on the road to recovery, and his siblings are delighted to see their ‘big brother’ improving.
As you know, we never know when a loved one might need to be rescued. But thanks to wonderful donors, the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter is always ready to fly to the rescue.
Donate today to help critical helicopter rescues like this possible for people in your community > https://give.rescue.org.nz/event/waikato-westpac-rescue-helicopter/donate