I'm fundraising for the Royal Flying Doctor Service

Hi family and friends,

I’m taking on a challenge to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), and I have just five days left to reach my fundraising goal!

Why the RFDS? Because when a medical emergency happens in a remote part of Australia, getting urgent medical care can mean the difference between life and death.

Living, working and travelling across regional and remote Australia has given me a real appreciation of just how far people can be from essential medical services. While the doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals working in country communities do an incredible job, most simply cannot provide every service available in a major city hospital. When a serious emergency occurs, the RFDS can bring critical medical care to people who need it most, often in places where there is nowhere else to turn.

My reasons for supporting the RFDS are also deeply personal.

As a teacher visiting students through the Schools of Isolated and Distance Education, driving outback roads and going to remote locations, I was constantly reminded of the vast distances separating people from essential services. Now, working with the WA Country Health Service, I have an even greater appreciation of the challenges facing rural and remote healthcare.

There is also a family connection. In the early 1960s, my mother worked as a nursing sister at Meekatharra District Hospital. She was often called upon to assist the RFDS during emergencies. This fundraiser is one way I can honour her service and the dedication of those who care for others in difficult circumstances.

And finally, there's a personal reason: when I was just three years old, I was transported to Perth following an accident. In a small way, this is my opportunity to give something back.

Every donation, no matter how small, can help support this vital service. With only five days left, I’d be incredibly grateful if you could donate and help me spread the word by sharing this post.

Thank you for helping keep this lifesaving service flying for the people of regional, rural and remote Australia. ❤️