Fundraising for rescue helicopter by kayak

When Ms Lindsey Edgar of St Huberts Island broke her ankle in three places in February, it not only saw her housebound but also put a stop to her regular volunteer work for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

But as the badly broken ankle began to slowly heal, Ms Edgar was determined it wouldn't stop her altogether from supporting the service.

As soon as she was able, she took to her kayak and launched a fundraising appeal on the Everyday Hero website.

"I've been helping out the service with anything they need for three or four years now," she said.

"I collect money for them, help out at events; but when I broke my ankle that all came to a stop."

As the coronavirus pandemic intensified, the service was forced to abandon many of the fundraising events it relied on and Ms Edgar decided it was time to jump back into the fray.

"For 10 weeks, I was pretty much immobile but once I was on the road to recovery I realised there was a way I could still help," she said.

"Kayaking isn't particularly stressful on the ankle so I decided to jump back into my kayak and try to raise some money for the service along the way.

"I set a goal of $3000 for the month of May, but I thought even if I raised a few hundred dollars it would help."

So far, Ms Edgar has raised about $700 in donations.

"The service is millions down on what they would normally have in donations due to coronavirus restrictions, so this is my way of trying to help a little," she said.

"It is so expensive to run those helicopters and I want to do everything I can to ensure it remains a free service.

"I know it is a difficult time for many people to be able to donate, but I want to keep the service in people's minds."

Meanwhile, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has launched its annual appeal with a goal to raise over $300,000.

You can donate to Ms Edgar's appeal at https://give.everydayhero.com/au/kayaking-for-helicopter-rescue, or at www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/Appeal or by calling 1800 155 155.

SOURCE

Media release, 11 May 2020

Richard Jones, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

Interview (Terry Collins), 11 May 2020

Lindsay Edgar, St Huberts Island