In a remarkable display of public support amid a personal tragedy, Australians have donated more than $350,000 to Save the Children in less than 24 hours in honor of independent MP Helen Haines, who remains in critical condition following an alleged attack earlier this week.
The fundraising campaign was initiated at the specific request of Dr. Haines and her family. Her husband, Phil Haines, urged supporters to donate to the charity rather than send flowers as his wife continues her recovery .
The outpouring of generosity comes after Dr. Haines was allegedly struck twice by a four-wheel drive outside her electorate office in Wangaratta, Victoria, on Monday. On Wednesday, Phil Haines confirmed that surgeons were forced to amputate both of his wife’s legs, though she remains alive and stable.
“We are deeply moved that Helen, her husband Phil, her family and her team are thinking of children in need and we would like to thank them for their kindness,” Save the Children Australia chief executive Matt Tinkler said in a statement on Thursday.
Tinkler noted that the family’s decision to focus on others during such a devastating time was a testament to their character. “That they want to do something positive for children when they are facing such a devastating situation speaks volumes about their generosity and compassion,” he said.
“The thoughts of everyone at Save the Children are with Helen, Phil, their loved ones and their community during this incredibly difficult time, and we wish Helen a steady recovery”.
The charity has committed to working closely with the Haines family to ensure the funds support causes close to the MP’s heart, including maternal and child healthcare and early childhood education.
The wave of donations has been accompanied by public displays of grief and solidarity. On Wednesday evening, roughly 200 people gathered in Wodonga, about 60 kilometers from Wangaratta, for a vigil supporting the federal member for Indi.
Supporters wearing Dr. Haines’ signature orange campaign shirts embraced and signed books with messages wishing her well.
Former Indi MP Cathy McGowan, who preceded Dr. Haines in the seat, attended the vigil and spoke to the ABC about the need to unite against political violence. “Her brain, her wisdom and her personality are still going to be with us,” McGowan said.
Phil Haines addressed the media on Wednesday, expressing gratitude for the support and affirming his wife’s resilience. “Helen’s road to recovery will be long and difficult, but we know she is a fighter,” he said. “She is a determined person who will do her best with our support and love to recover, and that is what we hope for”.
Floral tributes, gifts, and handwritten messages have continued to accumulate outside Dr. Haines’ Murphy Street electorate office as the community awaits further updates on her condition.
