BUNBURY will rally to assist a family affected by tragedy after a harrowing afternoon robbed the Majewski’s of a loving father and their eldest son’s ability to walk.
School teacher Chris Majewski plunged to his death after a desperate lunge to save his son Patrick in the Karijini National Park last October.
Eight-year-old Patrick survived the horrific gorge incident but was left without the use of his legs.
Widowed mother Helen Majewski returned to Bunbury with Patrick and his two siblings in tow and said Patrick’s positivity gave her strength throughout the ordeal.
“He is very positive and getting stronger every day,” she said.
“He undergoes rehabilitation during school holidays, but every day is rehab for us.
“The children go to Cooinda Primary School and they have been awesome – they have done everything to help.”
This year’s Triple Zero Ball identified the Majewski’s as a local family in need and were selected to benefit from the funds raised at the upcoming event.
Mrs Majewski was overjoyed with the pledge for support and said the funds would assist in medical costs and renovating the home to suit her paraplegic son’s needs.
Mrs Majewski told of Patrick’s delight in cooking and would utilise any funding to better equip the kitchen to her son’s disability and level the backyard for all of her children to enjoy.
“We have been lucky to receive help from people and it takes the pressure off of me financially,” she said.
“It’s very heartwarming to see there are lots of lovely people in this world.
“I’m just thankful and it all helps.”
Triple Zero Ball coorganiser Evelyn Brady said she heard of the family’s plight and knew the committee had to help.
“This is what emergency services are all about,” she said.
“I think Helen deserves this – it’s not just for Patrick, but the other two kids too.
“People need to understand this woman is caring for three children by herself on a pension.”
Mrs Brady asked any sponsors or contractors interested in assisting the renovation of the family’s home to contact 0428 217 078.
The Triple Zero Ball will be held on September 22 at the Lord Forest Hotel.