A mother’s intuition is often called a super-power, and for 8 year old Elijah that instinct has led to not one, but two flights in the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Elijah was born prematurely and consequently has experienced a number of health issues, one of which requires a shunt to drain excess fluid from his brain. But when Elijah started experiencing severe headaches and nausea in November 2021, mum Erin’s instincts instantly told her the shunt was blocked.

Based in Yamba and separated by border closures from his specialist paediatric neurological team on the Gold Coast, Erin couldn’t explain the relief she felt when she heard the Westpac Rescue Helicopter would be able to transport Elijah to get the treatment he needed.

“I thought the helicopter was only for things like car accidents. I never knew they would be there to help my family,” said Erin.

To give back to the Rescue Helicopter, Erin has set a goal to walk 12km in the 10th anniversary Byron Coastal Charity Walk on April 30, 2022.

“It’s something I always wanted to do, and I have huge respect for the Service now I’ve seen them in action not once, but twice with Elijah’s second transfer four weeks later.”

The Byron Coastal Charity Walk is an all-terrain challenge across sand, bush track and roads Participants can walk 12km to Broken Head Reserve, 24km to Lennox Head or the full 36km to Ballina.

An event designed about having fun, the walk is timed but not a race so walkers can complete the distance at their own pace as part of a team or individually.

Participants are encouraged to raise money in the lead up to the event, with all funds raised supporting the Rescue Helicopter.

Registrations are now open at coastalcharitywalk.com.au

Photo:

Elijah’s transfer with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter in 2021 and now recovering from his procedures.