HIGHWAY Patrol officers from Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast are banding together to help one of their own.
Senior Constable Justin Cordell knows all too well the difficulties families can face living with a seriously ill child.
His six-year-old son Callum has been battling a number of serious auto-immune and related illnesses from the age of nine months.
Through an auction and benefit night event to be held in Port Macquarie in November, the NSW Police Force, with the support of NSW Police Legacy, is hoping to raise funds for the Cordell family.
The family want the proceeds to be donated to the Newborn and Paediatric Emergency Transport Service, and research into early childhood blood disorders.
Kempsey Highway Patrol Sergeant Paul Dilley said the event would not only recognise the difficulties faced by Senior Constable Cordell and his family, but would also help provide awareness for the many other families in the area in similar situations.
“Currently the number of local direct outlets, such as the NSW Police Force, to raise financial support and awareness in local communities is limited,” Sergeant Dilley said.
“For that reason the upcoming benefit night will highlight the support services provided by NETS and the ongoing need for funding for research in the area of major blood disorders in children, which is the direct wish of the Cordell family.
“Throughout his work with the NSW Highway Patrol Unit, Senior Constable Cordell has saved countless lives. Now it’s our chance to not only give back to the Cordell family, but also to others living in similar situations.”
Since Callum’s diagnosis at nine months, he has received extensive and ongoing medical treatment.
Unfortunately, his condition has deteriorated throughout the last few months and he has lost the ability to speak and has limited movement.
In addition to the auction and benefit night, local police will continue local fundraising events to help raise funds for the Cordell family and their two chosen beneficiaries.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Assistant Commissioner John Hartley said the support of Mid North Coast Highway Patrol officers demonstrated the strong mateship developed within the force.
“The upcoming benefit night has been a result of local on-the-ground police officers banding together to help a fellow officer in need,” Mr Hartley said.
The benefit night will take place at Port Macquarie Panthers on Saturday 23 November.
To purchase tickets or make a donation, visit www.policelegacynsw.org.au/legacy-events
