Tommy wanted to do something special to thank the crew and raise funds for the rescue helicopter that helped save his mum Annie’s life.
“I’m really grateful because if it wasn’t for them, I might not have a mum,” says Tommy.
Tommy had been growing his hair since his mum’s accident and throughout the lockdown, and together Annie and Tommy came up with the idea of chopping his locks into a series of fun and crazy styles to raise money for the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
To launch his ‘Chop for the Chopper’ campaign, Tommy filmed a video clip which Annie shared on her social media pages in September 2021. Annie acted as Tommy’s personal stylist and together they created his unique looks, ranging from a bowl cut and a mullet to a multi-coloured mohawk, a dart board and a halo before going for a complete head shave to finish off his fundraising campaign.
“The mohawk was one of my favourites, the whole thing has been so much fun,” says Tommy.
Tommy originally had set himself a fundraising goal of $2,000 but with the support of his friends, family and community he raised an incredible $16,300 for the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
Annie said she and husband Ben are so proud of Tommy and his determination to help make a difference to people who need the rescue helicopter.
Always looking for ways to give back, Annie and Tommy both volunteered for the Chopper Appeal Street Appeal in May this year and helped shake the buckets and take donations in their community.
Tommy was keen to thank the crew who cared for his mum in person, so Annie and Tommy recently visited the base. He was so proud to hand over the big cheque to the crew and celebrate his big achievement.
“I’m really grateful to everyone who donated,” he said. “This has shown me anyone can make a difference no matter how big or small they are.”
We think you’re incredible Tommy!! It’s only with the help of amazing fundraisers like Tommy that we can continue undertaking life-saving missions in our community. If you would like to fundraise for your rescue helicopter, we’d love to help you! You can reach our Fundraising Team at [email protected] or call us on 0800 11 10 10.
