RNZAF helicopter crew gives young cancer patients uplifting airtime
Eight young people supported by the charity CanTeen Aotearoa and their caregivers have been treated to a flight over Christchurch in a Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90 helicopter as part of Uplift in Kind.
04 July, 2022
Flight Lieutenant Hamish Park said it was a real pleasure to take them on a flight over the city.
“We are often helping local communities in different ways and it’s great to be able to help these families have a memorable experience.
“My first ride in a helicopter was certainly an experience that has stayed with me, so it’s pretty great to be able to share something similar with these families who are going through a challenging time,” Flight Lieutenant Park said.
Uplift in Kind gives those who are less fortunate access to uplifting and aviation opportunities. It works with charities, such as CanTeen Aotearoa, to gift young people access to a number of aviation experiences.
Patients look out at the Christchurch view mid-flight
Uplift in Kind founder Tony McCombe said the programme was heartfelt by all involved and they were very excited to be able to go flying in the NH90.
“The excitement and thrills we have been able to achieve for these families is immense, and we like to think that it will give hope to those who really need it.
"We are ecstatic about being able to join forces with the Air Force to make memories and cheeky smiles. The families are over the moon and we loved seeing the impact of another heartfelt mission come to life"
- Tony McCombe, Uplift in Kind founder
CanTeen Aotearoa supports rangatahi/young people aged 13-24 across Aotearoa who have been affected by cancer. Whether dealing with their own diagnosis or cancer in their whānau, CanTeen provides a range of free support services, including individual support and therapy, peer support events, therapeutic programmes and camps, and online support.
Lucy Barnes, National Manager of Psychosocial Services at CanTeen Aoteroa, said peer events like this were important because they supported rangatahi to connect with others who can understand what they’re going through.
“Our relationship with Uplift in Kind is important because of the special experiences they gift to rangatahi.
“Experiences like the one with the Air Force not only help give rangatahi a break from cancer, but it’s also something they and their whānau will remember forever,” she said.