The lives of three Ugandan children were changed forever last year when South African Airways (SAA) and codeshare partner, Virgin Australia, in partnership with Brisbane-based charity Droplets in a Stream (DIAS), flew them to Australia to receive life-changing surgery.
The surgery was a success and this week 10 year old Benson returned to Australia for a third and final procedure along with 3 year old Shamirah who arrived in Perth this week.
Shamirah has relied on a tube to breathe for nearly 2 years after a life threatening accident which crushed her larynx.
Tim Clyde Smith Country Manager for SAA in Australasia, said “It is very humbling to be involved once again in this project with DIAS and our thoughts are with the incredible medical staff and families in the weeks ahead. We look forward to flying the children home safely following their procedures. “
Trent Malcom, South African Airways Sales Manager for Queensland who has worked closely with the charity over the last two years and saw the terrific results from the last trip said “SAA are incredibly proud to be able to continue to support Droplets in a Stream to bring them to Australia.
“Shamirah is only 3 years old her and since her accident she has had to breathe through a tube. Droplet’s in the Stream charity has secured the help of Dr Nial Jefferson at John Hunter Hospital and he is confident that with this surgery she can regain normal use of her larynx allowing her to breathe on her own which is truly amazing.” continued Trent
Rod Callahan founder of the Droplet’s in the Stream charity said “We are thrilled to have South African Airways and Virgin Australia on board with us on this project again. We are truly grateful to both airlines and appreciate every detail that was thought about and covered in preparation for the journey.“
Shamirah and her carer Irene Nambooze arriving at Perth International Airport met by Vicki Gordon, SAA Sales Manager WA/SA
.jpg){kind=tracking}