A British children’s air ambulance charity is appealing for a donated private aircraft to bring a critically ill child home from Hong Kong after he became seriously ill while visiting relatives.
Matthew, from Nottinghamshire, was nine months old when he travelled to Hong Kong with his mother and grandmother several months ago. He later contracted influenza A and suffered three cardiac arrests, leaving him critically ill in hospital, according to reports.
He has since spent his first birthday in hospital. His family and the charity Lia’s Wings have been trying to arrange a medically supported journey to the UK, where he could be closer to relatives and receive further NHS care.
Commercial flights ruled out
Lia’s Wings chief operating officer Charlotte Young told Metro that commercial airlines approached over the transfer had declined because of the risks involved in transporting a baby who needs a ventilator.
The charity says a private air ambulance could cost up to £200,000, beyond the means of both the family and the small organisation. It is seeking a donated long-haul aircraft that can be adapted for the journey.
Specialist team ready
According to the charity, a team of two consultants and a paediatric nurse, together with the necessary equipment, is ready to support the transfer if a suitable aircraft becomes available. Doctors in Hong Kong and England have agreed with the proposed plan, Young said.
Matthew was described as very unwell but stable within his condition at the time of the report. The reports reviewed do not confirm that an aircraft has yet been secured.
Insurance did not cover repatriation
The family had travel insurance, but the policy did not include repatriation, according to the charity. Matthew’s father remained in the UK for work while his mother and grandmother travelled with him.
Lia’s Wings supports air transfers for seriously ill children and their families. Information about its work and how to contact the charity is available on its website.
