Carole cherishes rural life and the Flying Doctor after they saved her daughter
We are so fortunate to have amazing supporters who ensure the Flying Doctor can continue bringing lifesaving care to rural, regional, and remote communities. Some of those supporters have seen our work firsthand, like Carole Lawrence, who says if it wasn’t for the RFDS she would have almost certainly lost her daughter.
Many years ago, Carole’s daughter was attending the Birdsville Races, which is situated between the Simpson Desert and the world’s largest sand dune desert and is most famous for its annual race meeting where thousands of people descend upon the small outback town.
The track is on a claypan alongside the sand dunes, and it was during one of these race meetings that Carole’s daughter suffered a severe asthma attack due to all the dust in the air. Carole’s daughter – who by this time was also experiencing high blood pressure – was quickly taken to the local hospital, but with limited medical equipment at the facility, the RFDS was quickly called upon and transferred her to the nearest hospital, potentially saving her life.
“My daughter said to me afterwards ‘I felt so bad, I thought I was going to die’. She couldn’t breathe, so without the Royal Flying Doctor Service she may not have made it,” Carole said.
Because of this, Carole has been a Regular Giver since November 2020, and encourages everyone to support others where they can.
“It’s good to give, it’s good for your soul. As far as I’m concerned giving is so important, because if we don’t give, then we don’t get,” Carole explained.
Having grown up in rural Victoria, Carole understands first-hand how vital healthcare is in those locations across Australia.
“I cherish rural life and how wonderful a place it is to live, but it can also be difficult because of how isolating it is,” she said.
“So, I really appreciate anyone who comes out to the country to help.”
The support of generous and caring people like Carole is so important to carry out our important work across rural, regional and remote areas.
If you would like to donate to the Royal Flying Doctor Service, please email supporter@rfdsse.org.au.
