About us

Petra has Down Syndrome, so her parents always knew they would need to watch her health more carefully as she can face more difficulties than other children.

After calling Healthline they took Petra to Kenepuru Accident and Medical Centre where medical staff saw how serious Petra’s condition was. Petra’s short, sharp breaths meant she wasn’t getting enough oxygen in her lungs.

Wellington Free Ambulance were called so paramedics could treat and safely transport Petra to Wellington Regional Hospital to get the specialist treatment she needed.

The situation was extremely distressing for Karen and Roger as they’d never had to call an ambulance before. “The paramedics were very patient and professional though. They were quick to respond and made sure Petra was safe,” Karen says.

Wellington hospital staff were on standby to help when Petra arrived. She had bronchitis and pneumonia – a combination that was proving too much for Petra to handle at such a young age.

She was critically ill and there were moments Karen and Roger though she might not make it.  

After about a week in hospital, Petra turned a corner and eventually was allowed home.

For Roger and Karen, the relationship with Wellington Free has been close over the years. Petra, now 9-years-old, has needed help several times, but thankfully it was nothing as serious as this.

“Were it not for Wellington Free being ready and willing to transport and treat Petra as quickly as they did – not to mention the help she received when she got to hospital, I doubt Petra would be with us today. We are eternally grateful for the service they have provided,” Roger says.

Petra, Roger and Karen will be celebrating Onesie Day, along with a host of volunteers wearing their onesies this Friday to collect donations for Wellington Free Ambulance’s street appeal.

People can donate $3 by texting ONES to 2489 or by heading to wfa.org.nz/donate