Bridge to Brisbane: The runners giving sick kids 2.7 million reasons to smile

Savi was only six weeks old when a bout of Influenza caused her tiny lungs to collapse and her family to make a 1000km move to Brisbane for lifesaving treatment. They say one thing eased the traumatic ordeal.

Savi Rajapaksha. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Six-year-old Savi Rajapaksha isn’t lining up for this year’s The Sunday Mail Transurban Bridge to Brisbane, but she has a squadron of supporters in her place.

Team Transurban has assembled hundreds of runners for the fun run on Sunday September 14, each with their eyes on the prize – to raise as much money as possible for Ronald McDonald House Charity (RMHC) SEQ.

Since partnering with the charity in 2013, the powerhouse team has raised $2.7 million to support sick children and their families, including the Rajapaksha family.

Savi was only six weeks old when she contracted Influenza A, causing her tiny lungs to collapse and her family to make a mercy dash from their Airlie Beach home to Brisbane for lifesaving treatment.

For almost a year, the tenacious infant endured an unsuccessful Kasai procedure, a liver transplant, multiple surgeries and treatment for chronic sleep apnoea and hearing loss.

By Savi’s side for every setback and success were her parents, Charitha (Chari) and Pavithra (Pavi), and her older brother Ranu, who moved into RMHC SEQ for 10 months during her treatment.

Pavithra and Charitha Rajapaksha with their kids Savi, 6 and Ranu, 11. Picture: Nigel Hallett

It became the family’s home away from home, providing them with accommodation as well as emotional and practical support during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

“Having accommodation so close to the hospital was a huge relief and without RMHC SEQ, we would’ve faced overwhelming financial stress during Savi’s treatment,” Chari said.

“They allowed us to stay together as a family and be by Savi’s side every step of the way - something we’ll always be grateful for.”

Transurban’s Ruth Moody said the organisation hoped to register a record number of runners and was already setting a cracking pace in a strong field of fundraisers.

“We are proud to do our bit to support families facing unimaginable challenges when their child is ill or injured,” Ms Moody said.

“Every dollar raised eases the burden on these families, allowing them to focus on what matters most, being there for their child.”

RMHC SEQ Chief Executive Officer Emma Thompson said the charity was delighted to team up with Transurban for the 12th year of its Bridge to Brisbane partnership.

“Transurban’s unwavering dedication and support to RMHC SEQ over the years has been nothing short of incredible, helping keep our doors open to families in need each year,” Ms Thompson said.

During their stay at RMHC SEQ, the Rajapaksha family took part in RMHC SEQ’s Make a Meal program, celebrated Ranu’s birthday, and attended footy games that inspired Ranu to take up the sport.

Also finding inspiration was Chari, who now works at RMHC SEQ following the family’s relocation to Brisbane and Savi’s remarkable recovery.

“I’m so proud to be working at RMHC SEQ as a catering supervisor now and giving back to other families in need,” Chari said.

“Most families at RMHC SEQ are going through their toughest times and every donation helps ease that burden and makes a real difference.”

Entries for The Sunday Mail Transurban Bridge to Brisbane are open at bridgetobrisbane.com.au

Originally published as Bridge to Brisbane: The runners giving sick kids 2.7 million reasons to smile