But thanks to Regional Express Airlines, Quota International and Challenge Armidale, the energetic four-year-old is on the road to recovery.

Thomas had a cochlear ear implant last year and must now go to Sydney once a week for six months for therapy - to teach him how to speak and to hear again.

Rex will fly Thomas free of charge to Sydney for the therapy, and provide a half-price ticket for one parent.

Previously they had to travel by train, which was a three-day round trip and 'an absolute nightmare.'

Quota was approached to support Thomas, and Quotarian and clients services manager at Challenge Armidale, Nicky Chirlian, said they were glad to assist.

"As a service organisation one of Quota's primary charters is speech and hearing. We are interested in helping kids with speech and hearing problems," she said.

Quotarians, Challenge staff and the Quota Club donated money to the Honeysetts, to help them initially with their accommodation costs and travel.

They also gave the family a Christmas hamper pack that contained food and presents, which was transported by Nifty's Courier Service.

By Sally Brennan