FunFlight News

FunFlight 07 - Wings give kids a lift
By Michelle Pountney - Herald Sun
June 4, 2007
Flying high: pilot Melissa Dodd watches as Cheyenne, 6, stands on the wing after her flight in one of a fleet of light aircraft. The pilots raised the spirits of dozens of sick kids. Picture: Mark Smith

 

THE spirits, bodies and minds of dozens of sick children and their families soared yesterday when they were flown around Port Phillip Bay in a fleet of light aircraft.

More than 40 volunteer pilots introduced more than 130 children, siblings and parents to the delights of flight in the huge airlift, dubbed FunFlight.

The young sightseers took off from Moorabbin and were given a birds-eye view of the bay before landing at Tyabb airfield for a lunch and flying display.

FunFlight founder Michel Verheem said making the sick children happy was the aim of the day.

"Any serious illness is devastating, but when it affects youth, it is especially heart-wrenching," Mr Verheem said.

"If FunFlight can put a smile on their faces, then we have done what we set out to do."

FunFlight worked closely with Starlight Children's Foundation, CanTeen and Angel Flight to identify children and families in need of a fun day out.

Cheyenne, 6, suffers the rare chromosome disorder cat-eye syndrome, which affects her kidney and bladder.

With brother Corey, 9, who has spina bifida, and mum Leanne, she took a flight to remember.

"We'd never ever be able to go flying in a little plane," Ms Webb said.

"When they are sick it just gives something to look forward to."

Beth, 12, suffers kidney failure and spends six nights a week on dialysis.

The Brighton youngster was thrilled with her first ride in a "little plane".

"I thought it was fantastic," Beth said.

Melissa Dodd, 21, was one of the volunteer pilots. The aspiring commercial pilot hopes one day to fly for the Royal Flying Doctor Service or Air Ambulance.