Katie Reed and Allkars Taniwha Mascot launchKids Appeal

10 year old Katie Reed ‘high 5’s’ Allkars Taniwha Mascot for helping her launch this really important campaign.

Katie Reed and Allkars Taniwha Mascot launch 2014 Countdown Kids Appeal

10 year old Katie Reed, Northland’s face of this year’s Countdown Kids appeal took the morning off school to launch the 2014 campaign today.

Katie, who has bronchiectasis, is someone who has benefitted first hand from the Countdown Kids appeal.

Katie was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis (permanent enlargement of the airways of the lung) two years ago, following seven bouts of pneumonia in 15 months. She spends a lot of time in hospital having antibiotics for lung infections, and has relied on respiratory support and blood pressure monitors purchased with the funds from previous Appeals.

Northland DHB has been able to buy equipment such as the AIRVO 2 (humidification technology) and blood pressure monitors bought with Countdown funds to monitor Katie’s vital signs when she is in hospital.

Whangarei Hospital has received more than $282,864.00 for its maternal and children’s ward over the last five years thanks to the appeal.

Katie's mum, Lisa Reed says: "I completely support my daughter in what she says about wanting to live life her way. She tells me "I can do anything I want to do in my life...I don't need to let my lung disease stop me from doing things". With the help of organisations like Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal, carrying on with everyday activities is a lot easier."

Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal Chairperson, Ruth Krippner, says: "Taking part in local activities is a great way to support the children who need us. As a community, we need to raise as much money as we can to support kids like Katie."

Lastly, it's an oldie but a goodie that works its socks off - the great Kiwi tradition of selling raffle tickets. Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal will be selling tickets again this year for shoppers to be in to win a brand new Volkswagen Tiguan, valued at $64,490.

Everyone can participate by making a donation or engaging in local activities and raffles. To donate, simply:

* Visit your local Countdown supermarket and donate at the checkout;
* Purchase a Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal wristband or raffle ticket instore; or
* Donate while you're doing your online shopping at www.shop.countdown.co.nz

-ENDS-

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