The rescue helicopter crews still remember the day they rescued Trevor and Shona Wright from a terrible car crash in mid-Canterbury. It was a tough rescue, and the injuries Trevor and Shona sustained were critical.

We were delighted to receive this letter from Trevor, providing an update on their recovery and telling us a little more of their story.

Trevor, thank you for letting us share your words below.


On the 8th December 2024, you, the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust, were so helpful to my wife Shona and myself, making emergency transport [2 helicopters] for us from a very serious motor vehicle accident in Glenroy, to Christchurch Hospital.

I was on my way to preach at two destinations that morning, so your two “mechanical angels” appearing to take care of us was further evidence of a miracle-doing God!

We are so thankful. Funnily enough, one of our sons and his wife saw the two helicopters flying over, and said, “some poor beggars” and then, blow me down, their phone rang with the Police telling them it was us!

Without your help I think we would have lost Shona, and possibly me. The hospital did not tell Shona that they did not expect she could make it through that first night; but they did not tell her – so obviously she did not feel she would have to comply!!

It has since been decided by the hospital that I blacked out while on cruise control at 100kmh, because of an epileptic attack, previously undiagnosed.

My poor darling wife had very serious injuries, and is still recovering, and having lots of medical appointments! The care we received from everyone – starting with the farmer who alerted the emergency folks that our car was a write-off, and wrong side up, and we were inside – with blood and petrol everywhere, the Police and Fire crews, the St John’s folk, your great helicopter service, and all the wonderful hospital staff, the after-hospital-carers, along with all the ‘beautiful’ folks from our base church who visited and helped in many practical ways, right through.

We love you all and enjoy the devotion to your many and varied tasks.

And thanks, Lord

Thank you all, again.

Multiple rescue services attended the accident, including two crews from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Wright on scene

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