Meet our little superhero, Charlie! His journey began when he was just 8 weeks old, experiencing breathlessness for the first time. His parents, both familiar with asthma, initially assumed it was a similar condition. But as time passed and emergency hospital visits increased, their concerns grew. After a few big health scares and stays in Starship’s PICU (Paediatric Intensive Care Unit) Charlie was sent to Starship’s Respiratory and Sleep Laboratory. The team took the reins, conducting specialist tests to unravel the mystery for Charlie and his family. Charlie found his breath, thanks to the Lab and the unwavering commitment of the wonderful specialists who transformed his life. Starship’s Respiratory and Sleep Laboratory provides critical testing and care for children with sleep and respiratory conditions like Charlie.
Staffed by a team of highly specialised physiologists, the Respiratory and Sleep Laboratory is visited by children who have some of the most complex and severe chronic respiratory and sleep disorders across the country. Recently, the lab got a much-needed face lift, courtesy of our generous customers’ donations.
Before the makeover, it wasn’t exactly a cosy spot for families. It also had insufficient storage and only one room was able to be utilised as a clinical space due to the flooring which wasn’t suitable for infection prevention. Charlie’s diagnosis in 2023 revealed Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD), a condition which affects the tiny cilia (or hairs) that line his airway along with brittle asthma, and bronchiectasis. This means Charlie’s airways are compromised, and mucus can’t be cleared. Finding a diagnosis was bittersweet for his family - but they were relieved to finally have answers. The fear of losing their boy still lingers, but Charlie’s resilience shines through. He faces challenges head-on, living life with boundless enthusiasm and positivity. Thanks to Craig, Charlie’s Respiratory Physiologist, he’s back in action! No more sitting on the sidelines—Charlie runs, plays rugby, and shoots hoops with his buddies. At school and during sports, precautions are in place, but Charlie’s living as normally as possible. This lab has become a second home for Charlie and his family, where they continue testing and maintaining his condition. The refurbished space ensures a safe, inviting environment for kids like Charlie, with enhanced infection prevention measures. The space provides the latest technology and support to keep children sleeping and breathing comfortably and safely. Stories like Charlie’s remind us of the impact our customers and their donations can have on improving health outcomes for all tamariki across Aotearoa New Zealand.
You too can support vital services like this by adding a monthly donation of as little as $3.00 to your Mercury bill. A small contribution can make a world of difference.
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