Couple spreads Christmas joy to hundreds of children in care
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A COUPLE who has spent many special holiday seasons by their son's hospital bed brightened Christmas for hundreds of Sunshine Coast children in care this week.
Angie and Luke Mansey recently welcomed home Corbin, who is recovering from surgery number 24 for his combination of conditions which are the only case in the world.
The couple started charity Driven by KM earlier this year in Corbin's honour, and on Monday hosted their first toy run which distributed donated gifts to Sunshine Coast University Hospital patients and children in foster care.
The couple's business, Kuluin Mufflers, became "Santa's drop zone" through November and December with thousands of gifts flowing from the community, clubs and businesses.
On Monday, Santa's sleigh was replaced with a convoy of tinsel-clad classic cars filled to the brim with toys.
Angie said they enjoyed a rousing send-off from 30 Good Start Main Road Childcare students before Fisher MP Andrew Wallace helped distribute toys at SCUH, and Santa helped unload gifts at Sunshine Coast Integrated Family and Youth Services.
Angie branded the event a "mammoth success" with televisions donated to the children's ward, as well as bookcases, DVD players, soft toys, dolls, cars and more.
When Angie started Driven By KM, she shared her son's fight with biliary atresia and VACTERL association, which has caused holes in his heart, epilepsy and chronic lung disease among other medical conditions.
The Manseys said they were happy to give back to other families who were going through a tough time.
"Luke and I believe that it is incredibly important to give back to those around you in the community and if you have the chance to brighten up someone's day by making a small effort then it is paramount to do so," she said.
"Kindness is contagious and it is most certainly something that is always in high demand.
"Kuluin Mufflers and the car community that support us have big hearts and this event was the highlight of our year."
Angie thanked the community, car club Just 8's, Torana Appreciation Society, Club CCQ and S550 Mustang Club, BOQ Buderim, Early Learning Main Road Maroochydore Childcare and Sanctuary Early Learning Childcare Buderim and all other businesses who contributed.
