Stories

A Beary Heartfelt Donation

Thirty years ago, whilst shopping in a local mall, Trevor Maberly’s wife, Gaylene made a donation to support the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Service. As a thank you they were given a rescue pilot teddy bear which they affectionately named ‘Captain Ted’. Being one of the original orders for bears at the time, the Maberly’s had no idea how special Captain Ted would become. Over the decades he has been a children’s toy, been put in boxes, has seen several house moves and up until recently has been gathering dust, with Trevor wondering what to do with him.

It wasn’t until recently as Trevor was driving past our base in Ardmore (where he still flies as a light aircraft pilot), that he had an idea about Ted’s future plans. So, three decades later Trevor is making another heartfelt donation (his beloved wife Gaylene has sadly since passed away) by donating Captain Ted back to the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Service that they donated to all those years ago. He wants his bear to continue to be treasured for future generations. Trevor has always been inspired by rescue efforts that take place in the skies, knowing firsthand how critical aerial support can be for those in times of need.

This generous donation is a reminder of how much community support means to Auckland Rescue. Thanks to Trevor this fluffy little piece of our history will remain for generations to come.

If you’d like to own or gift a rescue helicopter bear in time for Christmas, head to Auckland Rescue - Shop

(please note that only medic and winchman bears are available).