Rebecca Selkirk

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s vital role in saving the life of a young mother following a dramatic nighttime rescue featured in upcoming “Helicopter ER” episode.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) played a crucial role in the rescue of Chantelle Hinton, a 28-year-old mother, following a serious car accident that occurred on a freezing New Year’s Eve in Doncaster. Chantelle’s experience will be featured on the upcoming episode of popular TV series “Helicopter ER” on November 3, 2023.

Chantelle was driving home to her young son when her Mercedes veered off a dimly lit rural road, crashing into a tree in a roadside woodland. A passing motorist stopped and immediately called 999 for help, staying with Chantelle and offering reassurance, until help arrived.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team based at Nostell Air Support Unit in Wakefield swiftly sprang into action, with Paramedic Mikie Williams and Dr. Chris Srinivasan arriving at the scene just seven minutes after the 999 call.  The Pilot managed to skilfully land the helicopter close to the incident in a nearby field using the powerful searchlight attached to the helicopter’s underbelly.

Upon their arrival, the YAA critical care team joined the rescue efforts alongside local paramedics and fire and rescue services, where the gravity of Chantelle’s situation became apparent. She was trapped in her car, pinned at her legs, and had started to experience convulsions. Dr. Chris explained, “Treating a patient at nighttime and in low visibility conditions presents unique challenges, as our ability to assess and monitor the patient is hindered. This becomes especially demanding in large-scale incidents such as this. Time was of the essence, as I was particularly worried that Chantelle might experience another seizure, risking her airway while stuck in the vehicle.”

Chantelle remained trapped for over 40 minutes, with paramedics growing increasingly concerned about the dropping temperatures. Powerful painkiller, Morphine, was administered to alleviate her pain during the extraction process.

Following the challenging extraction, Chantelle’s condition remained critical. She was semi-conscious and in distress. The decision to transport her to Sheffield Northern General Hospital by land ambulance was made to address the risks of her deteriorating condition during transportation.

Dr. Chris highlighted the importance of the ability to perform necessary medical procedures in a road ambulance if needed. He said, “My concern was on the way to the hospital; she might have a seizure or worsening of a brain injury. It would be at that point I would have to perform an RSI (procedure to put a patient in a medical coma), but due to the technical nature of the procedure you can’t do that while flying, whereas you can easily stop a land ambulance and perform it at the side of the road.”

After 3 weeks in the hospital, Chantelle began a painful and slow recovery. She continues to grapple with side effects, including severe fatigue and cognitive difficulties, attributed to her brain injuries. Medical assessments confirmed that she had suffered a fractured skull, facial palsy (weakness of the facial muscles, resulting from damage to the facial nerve), a broken jaw, multiple rib fractures, injuries to both shoulders, two neck fractures, and four spinal fractures. Additionally, she sustained punctures in both lungs.

She shared, “I can hardly recall the accident. All I know is that I was heading home to my son, and that’s where my memory fades. The next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital, confused by the extent of my injuries. I had suffered so many physical injuries, but for me the real concern was the damage to my brain.

Since the accident, I’ve made significant progress, but I still notice how easily I tire, and how quickly I forget things. On long days, my speech can stumble, and words slip from my mind. Through it all, my son has been my rock, a comforting presence who always wants to be by my side, even if he doesn’t fully grasp the situation. He’s the one who has kept me going throughout my recovery. Reflecting on how far I’ve come and what I’ve overcome, I could never have imagined I’d survive this ordeal. I want to express my deepest gratitude to YAA; they saved my life, and I truly believe I wouldn’t be here without them. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

To read more YAA News, click here. 

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) took a unique approach to thank its dedicated supporters during their first ‘Ta Very Much’ day, which was part of the charity’s 23^rd anniversary celebrations. This heartwarming event, hosted at the Nostell Air Base in Wakefield, was designed to show gratitude to donors for their generous contributions.

The name ‘Ta Very Much’ encapsulates the essence of the event, offering a Yorkshire twist to the age-old tradition of saying ‘thank you.’ This day was crafted with great care and affection, an opportunity for YAA to extend their gratitude to the donors who have been instrumental in the success of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s life-saving missions.

The event saw YAA staff including the lifesaving crew of paramedics, doctors, pilots, TCM’s and various head office and fundraising teams briefly stepping away from their daily duties to make the heartfelt calls. It was an emotional experience, as the team had the opportunity to directly connect with the donors and make each supporter feel genuinely appreciated for their contributions, regardless of the amount.

Of the hundreds of donors who received a call, if anybody was not able to get through or received a voicemail, YAA staff went the extra mile, sending handwritten postcards bearing a personalised ‘thank you’ message, ensuring that no opportunity to say ‘Ta Very Much’ was missed and no supporter went unnoticed.

Reflecting on the significance of the “Ta Very Much’ day, Specialist Paramedic Critical Care, Sam Berridge, who was part of the team on the day, remarked, “Our team responds to an average of 4 to 5 incidents every day, and it’s thanks to our incredible supporters that we can swiftly attend to some of our region’s most urgent emergencies. They provide the essential funding that keeps our service operational and our helicopters in the skies. Therefore, it is absolutely crucial for us to show our heartfelt gratitude. ‘Ta Very Much’ day provided the perfect opportunity to express our thanks, and I’m eagerly anticipating next year’s event!”

This special event was a first for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, but it won’t be the last. Following the day’s remarkable success, YAA is excited to announce that it will become an annual tradition. The focus for 2024 is on making the event even bigger and more memorable, ensuring that their supporters continue to feel the love and appreciation they so rightfully deserve.

Reflecting on the day, Partnerships Manager, Katie Collinson, said, “ I was truly touched by the experience of making calls to our generous donors who have supported Yorkshire Air Ambulance over the years. It was a heartwarming opportunity to connect with the people who make our life-saving work possible. The event exceeded our expectations, and after this resounding success, we are committed to making it an annual tradition. We’re already setting our sights on making our 2024 event even more remarkable.“

Yorkshire Air Ambulance continues to be immensely grateful for the support and commitment of their donors, acknowledging that their life-saving work wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and generosity of the local community.

To read more YAA News, click here.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s vital role in saving the life of a young electric shock victim showcased in upcoming “Helicopter ER” episode.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) played a crucial role in saving the life of Fraser Bennett, a then 22-year-old machine worker from Bridlington, following a devastating workplace accident. Fraser’s harrowing experience and remarkable recovery will be highlighted in an upcoming episode of the acclaimed TV series “Helicopter ER,” as YAA’s critical care team demonstrates their exceptional medical expertise during a high-stakes mission.

Whilst conducting routine maintenance checks on a tall piece of machinery at his workplace in Sherburn, Fraser was suddenly gripped to the machine by a powerful electric current. The shockwave sent him into immediate cardiac arrest. His colleague, realising the severity of the situation, promptly aided in freeing him from the machine, resulting in a 6-foot fall from the ladder on which he stood, before initiating life-saving CPR and called 999 for help.

The critical care team at Yorkshire Air Ambulance were alerted to the incident following a call from a local paramedic at the scene, who required urgent on-scene support. Responding from their Nostell Air Base in Wakefield, which was 50 miles away and a 20-minute flight, the YAA crew, including Paramedics Pete and Andy, along with Dr Neil Sambridge, raced against time to reach the rural industrial unit in North Yorkshire.

Upon arrival, the land ambulance crews had already restarted Fraser’s heart, which had stopped beating, using a defibrillator, achieving what is medically known as a ‘Return of Spontaneous Circulation’ (ROSC).

While the primary focus of the medical team was Fraser’s cardiac condition, they also assessed the significant electrical burns on Fraser’s arm caused by the shock, as well as a bloody nose, which were additional points of concern. Excessive levels of carbon dioxide in Fraser’s blood were also a concerning sign, as it indicated the potential for brain damage due to the time he spent in cardiac arrest.

Dr. Neill made a critical decision at the scene to induce a controlled medical coma through a rapid sequence induction (RSI) procedure, essential to Fraser’s survival. At the time, Fraser’s risk of death was exceptionally high, and the precision of the procedure was paramount.

The episode will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate RSI procedure, which involved administering a sequence of drugs to ensure Fraser’s airways remained open, his brain was protected, and he was kept in a stable, controlled medical coma.

Fraser was swiftly transported by air to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, a major trauma centre, for further treatment. Before leaving the scene, Dr. Neill commended the other emergency service crews for their swift actions in restarting Fraser’s heart, stating that the initial defibrillation shock likely saved his life.

Remarkably, Fraser awoke from his medically induced coma just three days later. Eighteen months on, he continues on his journey of recovery, learning to walk again and regain his mobility, speech, and confidence.

Fraser shared, “It was just a routine maintenance job, a general check of the machine. I was up a ladder, and the next thing I knew, I was waking up in a state of confusion, still in shock when I learned what had happened to me. It was an incredibly worrying time for my family; they were prepared for me to wake up with brain damage. However, to my relief, I woke up, and I was quite functional, I’d say. During my recovery, I found myself in a dark place initially; I didn’t want to leave the house, and I avoided socialising. But I am slowly getting back to my usual self.”

He went on to express his gratitude to the team that saved his life, saying, “I owe my deepest thanks to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team for saving my life. I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to the emergency services who were the first on the scene and quickly defibrillated me when my heart stopped. Together they have granted me a second chance at life.”

Since the accident, Fraser has made a remarkable recovery. He has successfully returned to work through a phased approach and embarked on a new project, restoring a 1990 Nissan 300ZX car. This has given Fraser a newfound confidence and a profound sense of purpose.

With the project car now restored to its former glory and having successfully passed its MOT, Fraser is not just looking forward to new adventures but is embracing life with renewed enthusiasm and excitement.

Steve Sadler, a 58-year-old avid runner, found himself in a potentially life-threatening situation whilst training for the Manchester Marathon in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. His remarkable journey from crisis to recovery, facilitated by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), will be featured in the upcoming episode of “Helicopter ER” airing on 27^th October.

Committed to his rigorous training program, Steve embarked on a routine training run around his local village of Carperby near Leyburn. Just one mile into his run, he began to feel dizzy and unwell, eventually collapsing.

Upon regaining consciousness, Steve managed to carefully make his way back to his home, where his wife promptly called 999 for help. The YAA critical care crew, stationed at their Topcliffe air support unit near Thirsk, immediately dispatched their helicopter to reach Steve who was in a remote location.

Arriving at the scene, YAA Paramedics found Steve in a dire condition, lying on his living room floor, pale, clammy, and experiencing dizziness and nausea. During the 999 call, Steve’s heart rate was reported to be approximately 40 beats per minute, but an at the scene heart trace detected an alarming heart rate of 230 bpm, nearly three times higher than expected. His oxygen levels were also alarmingly low at 70, and his blood pressure was untraceable.

The YAA medical team administered medication to attempt to slow Steve’s heart rate down, remarking, “When we arrived, Steve was critically unwell. I have never seen a patient with this kind of heart rate still awake and conscious. I was deeply concerned he was going to go into cardiac arrest at this point.”

Steve’s condition continued to worsen during the short flight to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, 35 miles away. His heart rate surged to nearly 260 bpm, causing significant concern amongst the crew. Paramedic Georgina emphasised, “The concerning aspect of maintaining such an elevated heart rate is that the body’s resources become depleted rapidly. When your heart rate is elevated, it demands a significant amount of energy to sustain that rhythm. Once that energy reserve is exhausted, it often leads to a complete shutdown, with the heart coming to a halt.”

After six days in the hospital, doctors diagnosed Steve’s heart condition as a short circuit, requiring the installation of an implantable defibrillator. The ordeal forced him to take a three-month break from work and abandon his marathon training, much to his disappointment.

Steve shared his experience, “I went from feeling fantastic to suddenly overwhelmed by extreme dizziness and passing out. Somehow, I managed to make it back to my house – I am not even sure how I made it home, I was just determined to get home. The medical advice I received was crystal clear – no more running. It was a seismic shift in my life, given that running was my number one passion. Adapting to this new reality has been quite a difficult journey.”

He continued, “The sight of the yellow helicopter is a common one for many residents in rural North Yorkshire, particularly in the Dales. However, I never once expected to be the one needing its services. You never think it could be you. If someone had told me just hours before that I would be in an air ambulance en route to James Cook Hospital, I would have found it unimaginable. It’s a stark reminder that life can change in an instant. I am eternally thankful to the incredible team at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, and I’ll forever champion the outstanding work this charity does.”

Steve’s incredible story of survival serves as a powerful reminder of the vital services provided by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the critical role they play in saving lives, often in the most challenging situations.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is delighted to announce its participation in the heartwarming “Teddy’s Loving Care” campaign, an initiative run by West Yorkshire Freemasons. This collaborative effort aims to provide comfort to children facing anxiety and distress due to traumatic situations.

The Freemasons’ TLC (Teddies for Loving Care) scheme, which began 15 years ago, originally began delivering cuddly teddy bears to hospitals, offering a soothing distraction and a calming influence during paediatric medical examinations. The program, funded by West Riding Masonic Charities, has consistently supplied hospitals across North, South, and West Yorkshire with a box of teddy bears every month since 2008.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance, which regularly attends to trauma patients, including children, recognises the tremendous impact that these teddy bears can have on young patients in traumatic situations. As part of this campaign, YAA will offer teddy bears to children who require a flight to hospital and to former patients who visit the Air Base following their recovery.

Keith Bradley, Director of West Riding Masonic Charities Limited and TLC coordinator for the province, emphasised the significance of extending this support to Yorkshire Air Ambulance, saying, “Caring for children in their moments of anxiety and trauma is at the heart of the TLC campaign, and it’s only natural for us to extend our support to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Currently, we provide 18,000 bears annually to 17 hospitals, and the feedback from the children who have received them is incredibly heartwarming and highlights the teddies importance.

The work of the air ambulance is undeniably crucial, especially in serious incidents involving children. We are absolutely thrilled to have them join our campaign and are dedicated to continuing our support for their invaluable cause.’

Marianne Haworth, Grants and Partnerships Manager at YAA expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to participate in the ‘Teddy’s Loving Care’ campaign and express our heartfelt appreciation to the West Yorkshire Freemasons for inviting YAA to be part of this significant initiative and for their unwavering support. This campaign seamlessly aligns with our mission to provide comfort and care to those in their time of need.”

This isn’t the first time that Yorkshire and West Riding Freemasons have shown their support for Yorkshire Air Ambulance. They have previously offered financial support by sponsoring one of the two Yorkshire Air Ambulance Promotional vehicles, specially designed and built to bring a state-of-the-art educational supporter experience into communities throughout Yorkshire.

These units are equipped with interactive technology, including replica cockpits with curved screens displaying aerial footage of the views the YAA crews experience while flying in the air ambulance helicopters. The units also feature interactive iPads for an immersive user experience and a seating area where supporters can chat with YAA staff and volunteers.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the West Yorkshire Freemasons are excited to come together in this compassionate endeavour, further solidifying their commitment to the well-being of the communities they serve.

The Dramatic Road Traffic Accident is set to be featured on “Helicopter ER” on Friday 20th October

In an upcoming episode of the acclaimed TV series “Helicopter ER,” Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) race against time in a critical rescue mission as they strive to save the lives of classic car enthusiasts, Geoff Walton and Chris Devos, who’s 1966 Humber Hawk Estate flipped on its side, entrapping the couple, following a serious road traffic accident.

En route to a leisurely lunch at a stately home near Barnsley, their day took a harrowing turn. A high-speed collision with another vehicle, recklessly driving on the wrong side of the road, struck the couple’s vintage car at a crossroad junction. The impact was so forceful that it sent their car careening across the road, and ended up against a tall roadside hedge, leaving their cherished vehicle overturned, with the pair trapped inside.

Dr Steve Rowe and paramedics Mikey Williams and Georgina Godfrey from Yorkshire Air Ambulance responded swiftly to the scene. In a country with nearly 33 million cars on the road, accidents are a common occurrence, and the air ambulance is often a critical lifeline. The speed of the helicopter enabled the medics to arrive at the scene just five minutes after receiving the initial 999 call at their Nostell Air Support Unit in Wakefield.

The vintage design of their classic car raised concerns about the extent of their injuries and made rescue efforts more challenging for fire and rescue services. The paramedics worked diligently to access the patients and provide the urgent care they needed.

Geoff and Chris were without the safety features of modern vehicles, such as airbags, crumple zones, and pretension seat belts, which likely exacerbated the severity of their injuries. Their sole means of restraint was outdated fixed seat belts.

The windshield of their vintage car was partially detached, allowing rescuers to communicate with the couple from the front of the car. Paramedics and rescue teams carefully extracted the couple from the wreckage on stretchers through the rear of the vehicle. They took extra precautions, moving slowly, to prevent any potential broken bones from damaging or puncturing major blood vessels, thereby avoiding further injury.

Their Humber Hawk Estate, dating back to 1966, was part of a historical year marked by a high number of road fatalities. In that year, the UK witnessed nearly 8,000 recorded road deaths, a stark contrast to today’s improved safety standards.

Once freed, the adrenaline of the crash wore off and Geoff’s pain significantly intensified. He required morphine, a powerful pain relief drug, to alleviate the discomfort, which centred around his hips.

After both patients were stabilised, they were transported to a local district hospital via a land ambulance for further treatment.

Geoff faced a six-month-long recovery journey, having sustained three hairline cracks to his pelvis, which are expected to heal naturally, while Chris broke her left arm, which was subsequently casted. Although the couple are set to make a full recovery, their beloved vintage car was irreparably damaged, leading them to replace it with a 1959 Humber Hawk Saloon.

Geoff expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the swift and professional response from Yorkshire Air Ambulance, stating, “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the fantastic Yorkshire Air Ambulance team. They were incredibly quick and skilled, and it truly made all the difference. I also want to express my heartfelt thanks to the other rescue teams who helped us get out of that car on a very tough day. I’m grateful for the morphine that helped blur the memory of the accident. But what really matters is that my wife and I are okay, and we both feel incredibly lucky that our injuries weren’t more serious. It could have been a lot worse.

He continued, “Losing my vintage car was a real disappointment – They are very rare in the UK. However, I’ve since replaced it with a more powerful Super Snipe, and we’re eagerly anticipating new adventures and hopefully, accident-free memories!”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) continues to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to saving lives. In an episode of “Helicopter ER” scheduled for Friday night, (October 20^th), viewers will witness the tense rescue mission of Arthur Jepson, a seasoned biker with over three decades of experience, who found himself in a life-threatening situation during a leisurely ride on his Honda Goldwing motorbike.

Originally from London, Arthur made Yorkshire his home nearly four decades ago, residing in the South Yorkshire village of Harlington, near Mexborough.

On a typical summer day in August 2022, Arthur was en route to a gathering with his fellow bikers at a local club in Sheffield, a regular occurrence in his weekly routine. Choosing a different, more scenic route and riding at a slower, more cautious pace, he approached a junction when a collision with a car abruptly threw him from his bike. This unfortunate accident resulted in significant injuries, leaving him stranded in the middle of the road.

As Arthur lay injured on the road, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s efficient response came into play. While on a transit flight back to their Nostell Air Support Unit in Wakefield following another mission, the YAA dispatchers swiftly diverted the helicopter crew to the incident, just 16 miles away. On board was Dr Steve Rowe and Paramedic Tammy Williams, ready to respond to the call for help.

Within a mere six minutes of receiving the initial 999 call, the medical team were at the scene, where they found Arthur in need of immediate medical attention.

Arthur was in distress, complaining of a severe shoulder injury and a laceration on his lower leg. His condition was critical – marked by clammy, pale skin, and dizziness, along with alarmingly low blood pressure that put him at risk of shock. In response to his pain, IV pain relief was quickly administered on-site.

Arthur’s hearing impairment presented a challenge for the medical team. The noisy roadside environment made it difficult for him to clearly understand the team’s instructions and questions. Effective communication is essential in these critical moments to ensure patients fully grasp the treatments being administered, respond to queries from the medical crew, and find comfort during distressing situations.

The team’s tenacity paid off when they successfully located Arthur’s hearing aids, securely stored in his motorbike seat, significantly improving communication, which provided comfort to Authur, whose keen sense of humour soon shone through.

Once Arthur was stable and showing improvement in his blood pressure, it was deemed safe to transport him to Rotherham General Hospital by road ambulance, just a short 5-mile journey from the accident site.

Scans conducted at the hospital revealed a dislocated shoulder. Under general anaesthesia, a surgical team skilfully manipulated his shoulder back into place, followed by a strict course of physiotherapy to enhance his mobility.

Arthur’s fellow bikers, a tight-knit community, rallied to the scene with a trailer to recover his beloved motorcycle. With unwavering determination, Arthur is now working on restoring his cherished bike and dreams of reuniting with his biking group once again for adventures on the open road.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Arthur said, “When I came off my bike, the pain in my shoulder was my biggest concern. I distinctly remember the immense relief that washed over me when I saw the YAA team rushing to my aid; right then, I knew I was in safe hands!  My heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who played a part in saving me that day.“

Emphasising the importance of proper safety gear, he continued, “I can’t stress enough how thankful I am for having all my biking gear on. It’s not just equipment; it’s a lifeline, and I am utterly convinced it spared me from even more severe injuries. You know, that’s the stark reality of biking – when a mishap occurs, most motorists go home for their tea, but we find ourselves going into the hospital. I’m determined to repair my bike, and this accident won’t waver my determination to get back in the saddle. Biking is not just a pastime; it’s a profound passion that I hold dear.”

This incident isn’t the first time that the YAA has come to his aid following a motorcycling accident. In 2021, he had a similar mishap, falling from his bike approximately a quarter of a mile away from his recent accident site. Fortunately, in that instance, he suffered no major injuries, only serious bruising.

For more YAA news, click here. 

17 ASDA stores across West and South Yorkshire have joined forces since May 2023 to champion Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), the region’s dedicated emergency response charity. Their combined efforts have already raised an astounding £20,000 and counting.

This remarkable achievement highlights the unwavering commitment of both Asda employees and the local community to bolster the life-saving service, contributing to improving patient outcomes.

In a remarkable show of support, ASDA employees bravely participated in a sponsored skydive in June, fearlessly leaping from 10,000 feet to secure the vital funds.

In addition to other in-store fundraising initiatives, Asda has been a steadfast partner, hosting YAA Clothing Banks at 20 stores across Yorkshire since the inception of the YAA recycling scheme. These clothing banks play a pivotal role, not only in promoting recycling and sustainability but also in contributing over 20% of the charity’s annual recycling revenue, further fuelling its mission.

As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, relies heavily on the generosity of the public and fundraising initiatives to sustain its life-saving operations.

As a testament to their ongoing commitment, Asda has pledged to continue their support throughout the remainder of the year, scheduling bucket collections at their stores, inviting the YAA fundraising team to visit with their promotional vehicle, which features a replica cockpit simulator for shoppers to enjoy, and are exploring the possibility of another thrilling challenge event in the coming year.

The partnership between Asda and YAA has thrived over the past decade, with YAA proudly displaying Asda’s logo on its helicopters since 2014 as a tangible symbol of gratitude for their dedication and support.

During a visit to the YAA Nostell air base, where Asda employees learned more about the charity and presented the crew with a cheque for the funds, Tom French, a senior director at Asda, shared his thoughts on this extraordinary achievement, he said, “We set a target equivalent to a day’s running costs, and I’m incredibly proud of our team for surpassing this goal. Everyone has truly excelled, and we are genuinely thrilled with their exceptional efforts. Yorkshire Air Ambulance holds a special place in our hearts, and we are wholeheartedly committed to continuing our support.“

Regional Fundraising Manager for West & South Yorkshire, Vickie Cowan, said, “ On behalf of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible ASDA teams across West and South Yorkshire, as well as the local community, for their unwavering support. Their dedication to achieving their fundraising goal is truly inspiring and significantly contributes to our ongoing mission to save lives. We are thrilled to have the backing of ASDA, and together, we remain committed to making a meaningful difference for those in need.”

In a high-stakes episode of the acclaimed TV series ‘Helicopter ER,’ Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) once again demonstrates their extraordinary medical expertise. This time, assisting Damian Galloway, a resilient 50-year-old motorcyclist who survived a traumatic road traffic accident on August 7^th, 2022.

Damian was riding his motorbike at approximately 35 miles per hour when two cars in front suddenly executed an emergency stop just before a roundabout. Trapped and with nowhere to go, Damian collided with the back of one of the cars, catapulting him into the air before he landed on his back on the busy road.

Damian vividly remembers remaining conscious throughout the entire ordeal, a situation where maintaining composure is of paramount importance. An off-duty police officer, coincidentally present at the scene while en route with his family for an afternoon at the coast, promptly halted and stayed with Damian. He played a crucial role in keeping him composed, ensuring he remained still, holding his head in place, and promptly alerting the emergency services.

The Dispatcher at YAA’s Nostell Air Base in Wakefield swiftly deployed the helicopter, carrying paramedics Andy and Steve to the accident scene located just North of Malton along a major road leading to the Yorkshire Coast. Given the anticipated arrival time of over 30 minutes for the land ambulance, the helicopter’s remarkable speed played a pivotal role in ensuring a rapid response to Damian’s situation.

Arriving first at the scene, the experienced critical care crew immediately assessed Damian’s condition, harbouring concerns about his chest, abdomen, and the possibility of spinal complications. To alleviate his pain, morphine was administered at the scene.  Thankfully, Damian’s commitment to safety by wearing the correct protective gear played a pivotal role in mitigating more severe injuries.

Damian, who works as a professional tennis coach, knows that accidents like this could have a devastating impact on his sporting career. After it was determined that he was stable, the decision was made to transport him to Scarborough Hospital by road.

Medical examinations later revealed that Damian had suffered five broken ribs and severe bruising, leading to a painful three-month recovery period. Despite the challenges he faced, Damian is immensely grateful to YAA for their swift response and to the off-duty police officer for his invaluable assistance in a moment of crisis.

Damian shared his thoughts on the incident, saying, “I can vividly recall every moment of my accident. I found myself lying on the curb, overwhelmed by panic, and fearing I had broken my back due to the excruciating pain. I am profoundly grateful to Yorkshire Air Ambulance; their swift response was absolutely instrumental on that day, and their dedication is truly incredible. I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the police officer who selflessly stopped to help. He had plans with his children, yet he played a key role in keeping me calm and collected during a daunting experience.

I am immensely indebted to everyone who came to my aid, and I consider myself fortunate that they were there for me. Today, when I venture out on my bike, even if it’s just a short trip to the shops, I ensure that I wear all my safety equipment. Sometimes, it may seem excessive for such a brief ride, but I’m acutely aware that many accidents occur within a few miles of your home, where you tend to be more familiar with the roads and might ride faster. My message to fellow riders is to take the time to prepare properly you never know what could happen on the road and it is better to be safe than sorry; I believe I’ve become a better and safer motorcyclist as a result.”

Also featured in the episode, set to air at 9pm on Friday 13th of October, are three gripping incidents, including Damian’s serious motorbike crash, an unfortunate DIY accident and a distressing incident in which an 87-year-old man on an electric bicycle was struck by a car, resulting in significant injuries.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Vital Role in Keith Thompson’s Life-Altering Accident Showcased in Upcoming “Helicopter ER” Episode

Keith Thompson, a then 72-year-old retired electrical engineer, will feature in an upcoming episode of the acclaimed TV series “Helicopter ER” as Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) showcases their exceptional medical skills during the tense mission.

Keith was in the midst of a DIY project at his daughter’s home in the remote area of Sleights near Whitby when a serious accident occurred. While fitting a cooker hood above the hob, he slipped from his step ladder, severing his wrist on the sharp cooker hood and striking his head on the floor. This incident led to severe injuries, including a lacerated wrist, damage to major blood vessels and tendons, and significant blood loss. He also sustained a head injury during the fall.

Given Keith’s remote location, approximately an hour away from the nearest trauma centre, the situation was dire. Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s helicopter was quickly dispatched from its Nostell air base in Wakefield, flying 60 miles to reach Keith. On board were Sammy and Andy, the highly skilled HEMS Paramedics entrusted with Keith’s life.

Upon arrival at the scene, Keith’s condition was critical, he was pale, clammy, and his vital signs were alarming, with a dangerously low blood pressure that posed a risk of shock. He was in excruciating pain, and his lacerated wrist had caused substantial bleeding.

The paramedics swiftly administered IV fluids to stabilise Keith’s blood pressure. Recognising the gravity of the situation and the likely need for surgery, the medical team promptly decided that the best course of action was to transport him to the nearest trauma centre, James Cook University Hospital in Middlesborough, to minimise the risk of nerve damage.

Keith underwent emergency surgery on his wrist to repair seven out of eleven tendons in his right hand that were extensively damaged. While the accident has left permanent effects on the use of his arm and hand, Keith maintains a resilient spirit. He continues to contribute to his local community centre, determined to adapt to his changed circumstances.

Reflecting on the life-saving intervention, Keith shared, “I’m not one to be melodramatic, but with the amount of blood surrounding me, I could see my life slipping away right before my eyes; I knew I was in real jeopardy. The Yorkshire Air Ambulance team, alongside the dedicated local paramedics, played an utterly invaluable role in saving my life that day.

Although my hand won’t regain its former function, I am immensely thankful for their presence and expertise. I have so many DIY projects I want to finish around my home, but, for the first time in my life, I will have to entrust them to others, which is a source of deep sorrow for someone like me who has never relied on others for this type of work before.”

Also featured in the episode, set to air on Friday 13^th of October, viewers will witness three gripping incidents, including Keith’s unfortunate DIY accident, a serious motorbike pile-up near Malton, and a distressing incident in which an 87-year-old man on an electric bicycle was struck by a car, resulting in significant injuries.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) played a pivotal role in the suspense-filled episode of Emmerdale that aired last night (Wednesday, 11^th of October). This special feature marks a significant collaboration between the popular ITV soap and the YAA, focussing on the essential work of the charity and the critical role air ambulances play in emergency medical situations.

In Tuesday’s episode of Emmerdale, Mackenzie Boyd, Charity Dingle, and Chloe Harris found themselves entangled in a brutal car crash as part of the show’s thrilling stunt week. The intense storyline, filled with suspense and drama, captivated viewers nationwide.

The episode portrayed a series of events that took a sinister turn when the car Chloe, Mackenzie and Charity are travelling in veers off the road after an unexpected van collision and left their car teetering on the edge of a cliff.  Viewers were left in suspense on Tuesday night wondering who Mackenzie saved after the car plummets to the bottom of the quarry with one passenger still inside.

Cue the surprise arrival of one of YAA’s iconic yellow helicopters in Wednesday’s episode elevating the authenticity of the storyline and the severity of the incident. The dramatic stunt sequence, encompassing multiple days of filming for the Emmerdale cast, intricately involved skilled stunt performers and visual effects to craft the gripping final shots. Yorkshire Air Ambulance contributed to the episode during a single day of filming in late August, taking place at a disused quarry at Denhome near Keighley.

Despite the filming, both of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s air bases in Wakefield and Thirsk continued to operate as usual, ensuring that their life-saving service was never offline or affected. This dedication to service continuity is a testament to the professionalism and commitment to the charity’s values and mission.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance pilot, James Booth, who flew the YAA helicopter in the episode has also previously appeared as another helicopter pilot on the ITV show back in 2006. He shared his experience, saying, “Participating in such an iconic show while piloting an equally iconic helicopter was an incredible experience. Very few people have the privilege of flying a helicopter on the show for a second time, so I consider myself fortunate to have received this opportunity. The show’s willingness to include YAA is a testament to their commitment to authenticity, mirroring the dedication and precision that define our missions every day.“

YAA Operations Manager Paul Holmes, who was one of two YAA Paramedics who were part of the iconic scenes alongside colleague Gemma Richmond also offered clinical guidance and support to the actors, Director and production team. He said, “It was a truly unique experience collaborating with the Emmerdale team and witnessing the behind-the-scenes production of such a renowned show in action. The entire YAA team has been eagerly anticipating the episode’s release since we wrapped up filming. For me, our mission extends beyond saving lives; it’s about shining a spotlight on the vital work we do, and this collaboration has offered a fantastic platform for that.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is a lifesaving rapid response charity, serving over five and a half million adults and children and spanning over three million acres of Yorkshire. As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to operate and help save lives across Yorkshire.

Emmerdale’s Production Manager Bob Farrell, praised the YAA’s involvement, saying, “We were absolutely delighted to be able to involve YAA with this gripping storyline. The team demonstrated remarkable dedication and expertise on the day, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the scenes looked as realistic and as accurate as possible. Their valuable medical insights and direction left us in awe of the incredible work the YAA does in real life, and we’re immensely grateful for their support, which contributed to the episode’s overall authenticity and helped portray the seriousness of the accident.”

For more YAA news, click here. 

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team (YAA) have once again showcased their remarkable medical skills in a rescue mission involving Brendan Jackson, a 15-year-old promising cricketer. This inspiring story will be showcased in an upcoming episode of the popular TV series, “Helicopter ER,” which returns to screens on October 6th.

Known for his cricketing talent, Brendan was in the middle of a game at the historic Walton Park Cricket Club, near Wetherby when disaster struck. Whilst bowling his third over, Brendan’s studs caught in the crease, resulting in a horrific snapped ankle. The incident set the stage for an extraordinary response from YAA.

The call for help was answered swiftly as a YAA helicopter was dispatched from their Topcliffe Air Base in Thirsk, covering a 20-mile journey by air to reach the cricket pitch. The Walton Cricket Club, steeped in over a century of cricket history, became an unexpected scene for a dramatic rescue.

Upon arrival, YAA paramedics found Brendan on the pitch, supported by his mother, Diane Sharp, and a doctor who was present with the opposing team. The doctor had stepped in to provide immediate assistance and made the initial 999 call. Brendan’s injury was severe; not only had he dislocated his ankle, but he had also fractured both bones in his lower leg. This raised grave concerns with the medical crew about potential complications due to reduced blood supply and potential nerve damage.

To alleviate Brendan’s excruciating pain, Paramedics administered gas and air. However, the extent of his injury necessitated stronger medication. Ketamine was carefully administered, taking into account Brendan’s age and weight as he was still considered a child at 15 years old. Ketamine not only relieved Brendan’s pain but also had a dissociative effect, helping him cope with the traumatic experience.

With Brendan’s shoes and socks removed, YAA paramedics expertly realigned his leg using a mouldable vacuum splint, ensuring stability during transportation.

Looking back on his accident, Brendan said, “I remember my first reaction vividly; it was a mix of shock and fear. I just looked down, and all I could think was, ‘Oh my word, what has happened, and will I ever be able to play cricket again?’ It was a terrifying moment for me. When the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team showed up, it was a massive relief. They were like superheroes, and I’m so grateful for how they were able to take away some of my pain. I can’t thank them enough for being there.”

The decision was made to transport Brendan to Harrogate District Hospital via land ambulance, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. At the hospital, Brendan underwent surgery to pin and plate his ankle.

“It was a very traumatic day,” said Diane, Brendan’s mother, reflecting on the harrowing incident. “I didn’t see his leg initially; I just thought he had tripped. But once I heard him shouting in agony, I knew I had to rush over and keep him as calm as possible until more help arrived.”

Diane continued, “The worst thing for me was hearing him scream when they moved his ankle into the splint. It was heartbreaking as a parent to witness him in so much pain. But when I heard the air ambulance coming, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. They were the first to arrive on the scene, and I knew they would be able to help relieve him of the excruciating pain he was suffering.” she shared.

Despite the challenges, his unwavering determination shines through as he plans to make a triumphant return to competitive sports in the near future.

In the upcoming Helicopter ER episode on October 6th, viewers will witness three gripping incidents, including Brendan Jackson’s remarkable rescue, a grandmother’s car accident, and a severe road collision involving a paramedic.