For immediate release
29 August 2008

Wagga Wagga baby retrieved by Telstra Child Flight

A 10 month old baby girl from Wagga Wagga was retrieved by Telstra Child Flight for transportation to the Children’s Hospital Randwick after a severe bout of apnoea induced choking.

“Charlotte has had a history of apnoea since her birth, however this instance resulted in her choking on a rusk biscuit she was eating at the time,” recalls mother Krystie.

“I was unable to completely clear her airway and had to resuscitate her twice before an ambulance arrived.”

When Charlotte was taken to Wagga Wagga Hospital doctors were forced to administer resuscitation twice again over a short period before she was finally stabilised.

Telstra Child Flight was on hand to transport Charlotte to Randwick Children’s Hospital where she underwent treatment.

The emergency helicopter service has performed over 20 retrievals to the Wagga area over the past 12 months. This figure clearly highlights the necessity and relevance of such a service for those living not only in Wagga, but for those located in other remote or rural parts of NSW.

Telstra Child Flight is the only emergency helicopter transport service of its nature in the Southern Hemisphere dedicated solely to the retrieval of kids.

Each mission undertaken by the organisation costs between $6,000 and $15,000 and is provided at no charge to families in need. Telstra Child Flight is indebted to major sponsor Telstra, who along with the generosity of the public, corporate partners and support group members, continue to ensure that Telstra Child Flight can continue to provide their vital service to the public, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.”

After three days of observation Krystie was able to take her little girl home. “I felt complete confidence in the medical team and pilots for the safety of my daughter. They kept her stabilised and happy by playing with her the whole journey.”

“Thank you so much for the excellent care in our time of need,” said Krystie.


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For more information, interviews or photo opportunities:
Kate Sincic
P 02 4385 2696
M 0422 619 788
E ksincic@brilliantlogic.com.au