LESMURDIE pediatrician Richard Christie is one of nine western region ambassadors involved in the Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC).
The organisation brings disadvantaged kids requiring urgent medical treatment to Australia from developing countries.
Dr Christie first joined the group in 2004 as the state’s regional director. In 2006, he was elected the national director of the institution, which has since expanded into New Zealand.
“ROMAC is a great humanitarian program that’s been running for over 20 years,” he said.
“We bring in surgical cases that can’t be performed overseas to help children with deformities so that they have a chance at leading a normal life after their operation.
“We assess each case individually and often have to act quickly as many kids are suffering from life-threatening conditions.
“Many developing countries don’t have access to the technology Australia does.”
Dr Christie said the majority of the organisation’s success was centred on the generosity of its sponsors and surgeons.
“No one gets paid as this is completely volunteer based. We rely on the public and the goodwill of our hospitals,” he said.
“Fundraisers like sausage sizzles and concerts in WA are carried out by local Rotary clubs. Perth is just a tiny part of the organisation but every contribution helps.”
Dr Christie said seeing a child return to their everyday activities was a highlight of his involvement.