David and Kylie Fisher and their three children Isabella, Harrison and Adelaide, live on a remote sheep and cattle station. Situated 160km west of Bourke, their isolated location means they are without easy access to regular healthcare services. They are reliant on the Royal Flying Doctors for medical assistance or they drive 50km to Hungerford in Queensland where monthly clinics are held.

When Harrison was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, speech delay and other medical issues, it was recommended that he undergo regular psychology sessions as well as speech and occupational therapy. Most of these services were over five and a half hours drive away (an eleven-hour round trip!) – with the closest service being two hours drive and only available every three months.

Luckily Harri and the Fishers were then referred to Royal Far West – a 900km trip that they continue to make every six months. Vast improvements have been made through the various treatments Harri receives and the family are confident this will continue. Kylie and David also appreciate the convenience of having all of Harri’s appointments in one place, coordinated by their own case worker. Their remote location means the one-week trip to Sydney every six months for a block of appointments is far more time-efficient and cost-effective than spending whole days commuting to and from Bourke or Dubbo.

‘We have been in drought for most of the children’s lives so Royal Far West is a great place to attend, not just for medical help but also to relax and enjoy seeing green grass and lots of water,’ says Kylie. ‘We are very grateful for the help and support we have received from Royal Far West and look forward to our continued relationship with them.’