Aspects of this story include references to self-harm. Please use discretion when reading.
Back in 2019, Stacey had a serious post-surgery health complication, which resulted in 6 weeks in hospital and excruciating pain…
…and the pain didn’t go away. After 18 months and desperate, she had tried everything to overcome the debilitating pain, but nothing worked. Finally, it all became too much for Stacey, and tragically, she tried to take her own life.
We are so thankful that Stacey was found in time, and rushed to Thames Hospital. She was immediately put on life-support.
But it wasn’t enough. Her life was hanging by a thread. Her doctors quickly realised that Stacey needed an urgent transfer to Waikato Hospital ICU.
Thanks to caring and generous people like you, the Waikato Westpac Rescue Helicopter was able to arrive shortly afterwards, and your rescue helicopter crew provided Stacey compassionate, expert medical care throughout her flight. Together, you helped save her life.
From this moment on, Stacey realised the gift she had been given and worked incredibly hard to turn her life around. Not only through her determination was she on the road to physical recovery, she began receiving the mental health support she needed.
And today? Stacey has recovered and has become a Mental Health Practitioner, now helping others deal with their struggles. And that’s not all. Stacey has been inspired to give back to the rescue helicopter service that helped save her life.
Setting herself a hugely ambitious goal, Stacey decided to tackle the 1,000km hike of the Bibbulman Track, and raise $3,500 to save lives in the community. We are incredibly proud of Stacey, and the incredible recovery she has made. You are a legend! And thank you for choosing to give back in this very special way.
If you’d like to know more, or maybe support Stacey’s fundraising efforts, please visit her Give-A-Little page here: givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/shifty-strolls-walks-a-1000km-and-more-to-come
If you would like to raise money for your local rescue helicopter crew, we’d be thrilled! Please reach out to us on [email protected] or 0800 11 10 10, and we’d love to give you some ideas and resources.