Fundraising

Armadillo Storage Extends Partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is thrilled to announce the extension of its longstanding partnership with Armadillo Storage, which has supported the charity for over 12 years.

Armadillo Storage provides complimentary storage space for YAA’s South Yorkshire fundraising team at its Sheffield Parkway facility, a partnership now extended through the first quarter of 2025, helping the charity save vital resources.

The conveniently located storage unit serves as a vital hub for YAA’s South Yorkshire fundraising operations, providing easy access to essential materials. It houses everything from event equipment and promotional merchandise to fundraising supplies and volunteer resources, ensuring the team is well-prepared to maximise their impact at events across the region.

As part of its commitment to giving back through its Foundation and community-focused partnerships, Armadillo Storage recognises the critical role Yorkshire Air Ambulance plays in the region. Sarah Clements, Store Manager from Armadillo Storage, said, from “We choose to support Yorkshire Air Ambulance because we recognised the essential work they do in the local area. As a charity that relies entirely on donations, we understand how valuable this storage space is to their operations. By providing it free of charge, we can help ensure their funds go directly towards saving lives every day”.

This year, as Yorkshire Air Ambulance celebrates 25 years of lifesaving service, the demand for their presence at community events continues to grow. In 2024 alone, the charity attended over 289 events across Yorkshire, engaging with thousands of supporters and raising vital funds to keep its helicopters flying.

Helen Berriman, Interim Regional Fundraising Manager for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her gratitude for the partnership, she said, “The support from Armadillo Storage has been invaluable to us over the years, and their continued partnership makes a real difference to our fundraising efforts. Having a reliable and well-located storage space means our teams can quickly access everything they need for events, ensuring we’re always prepared and ready to engage with the communities we serve. This partnership allows us to direct more of our resources towards our lifesaving missions, ensuring we can reach those in need when they need us most.”

This partnership is a testament to how local businesses can make a meaningful difference in their communities. To learn more about corporate partnerships, click here.

Gripple Raises Over £27,500 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s Lifesaving Work

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Sheffield-based Gripple has raised an impressive £27,522.26 in support of Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA), helping to fund the charity’s vital emergency service throughout 2024.

As a 100% employee-owned business, Gripple’s charitable arm, the Gripple Foundation, is committed to supporting local causes, and YAA was proudly chosen as its Charity of the Year for 2024.

Throughout the year, Gripple’s fundraising efforts showcased the creativity and generosity of its team. From bucket collections at Sheffield Wednesday Football Club to engaging in-office events across its four locations, and through their payroll giving scheme, employees went above and beyond to support YAA’s lifesaving missions.

The highlight of the year was Gripple’s dazzling ‘Cloak and Cocktails’ charity ball, held at Cutler’s Hall in Sheffield, in September. Organised by two of Gripple’s graduate trainees, the ball transported guests back to the 1920s with live jazz, bespoke cocktails, and a speakeasy atmosphere. The evening’s Silent Auction contributed to the ball’s outstanding success, raising over £14,600 in aid of YAA and three other local charities.

Gripple also played a key role in YAA’s annual Recognition Awards evening by sponsoring the ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award. This special event celebrates the incredible contributions of volunteers, businesses, and fundraisers who help ensure YAA can continue providing rapid, prehospital care across Yorkshire to those that need it most.

On the night, Gripple’s exceptional support was acknowledged with the prestigious Corporate Supporters Award, a heartfelt surprise for the team and a testament to their outstanding efforts.

Helen Berriman, Interim Regional Fundraising Manager for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, said, “We are incredibly grateful to everyone at Gripple for their enthusiasm and dedication to supporting our charity over the past year. Gripple has made a real difference to our lifesaving work, and their new Charity of the Year for 2025 will be incredibly lucky to have their support. We hope to continue working with Gripple in the future and thank them for everything they have done to help keep our service operational”.

In 2024 alone, Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s critical care team treated 1,297 patients, including 326 cardiac arrest cases, and delivered 417 lifesaving interventions. As an independent charity, YAA relies entirely on the generosity of businesses like Gripple and public donations to continue providing this essential service.

Natalie Rusling, Chair of the Gripple Foundation said, “It has been another unforgettable year in terms of charity and we are extremely proud of the efforts everyone at Gripple has made to raise funds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. As always, a huge thank you goes to our employee owners, whose generosity and time has made a huge difference, achieving the incredible total of £27,522.26. We are humbled to know that this donation will support the vital work the Air Ambulance completes, funding potentially lifesaving trips, helping those in need across our region”.

Group of people on stage claiming award

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Unveils Stunning Drone Show in Partnership with SKYMAGIC to Launch its 25th Anniversary Year

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In a thrilling start to Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s 25th Anniversary celebrations, the Charity has partnered with world-renowned drone show creators SKYMAGIC to deliver a one-of-a-kind display, celebrating the lifesaving work of YAA in spectacular style.

The breathtaking show, which premiered on Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s YouTube and social media channels, has already captivated hundreds of viewers.

The production, kept tightly under wraps since May 2024, features an extraordinary light display. The drones first synchronising to form a toweing 200 ft paramedic walking through the sky, before transforming into an exact replica of the Charity’s iconic yellow H145 D3 helicopter. The striking helicopter, with moving rotors and blades before the show concludes with a powerful ‘thank you’ message recognising the vital public support that keeps YAA’s life-saving missions possible.

Performed live to a small, private audience of YAA staff at Park Lodge Shooting School, a long-standing supporter of the Charity, the show has been kept under wraps until now to coincide with the launch of YAA’s 25th anniversary celebrations and has been released on social media to inspire and thank supporters across Yorkshire.

Adding to the authenticity, the cinematic video, created by Northern Visuals based in Hull, captures the essence of a real-life YAA mission, using the voiced of actual YAA crew members which was recorded during a live incident, creating an immersive and emotional experience that highlights the Charity’s lifesaving work. The show was also generously designed and produced by SKYMAGIC free of charge, making it a truly special gift to mark the beginning of YAA’s milestone year.

Patrick O’Mahony, Creative Director and Co-Founder of SKYMAGIC, said, “With our UK studio in Leeds, we are proud to be supporting Yorkshire Air Ambulance celebrate 25 years. As one of the world’s leading drone show companies, the skies are our canvas, and there was no more fitting place to tell the story of this incredible charity saving lives in our region. We hope our small contribution of a drone show inspires others to donate to this important cause.”

SKYMAGIC, renowned for their high-profile drone shows – including performing for His Majesty Kind Charles III at the 2023 coronation concert at Windsor Castle, marketing the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and even landing a 3D A380 plane on the North Runway of the newly renamed Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi – brought their world-class expertise to this unique collaboration.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Critical Care Paramedic Sam Berride, said, “Every time I watch the video, I am filled with immense pride. The drone show is absolutely breathtaking, and the scale of the production is incredible. This one-of-a-kind celebration perfectly highlights the vital work we do and serves as a heartfelt thank you to the people of Yorkshire for their incredible support over the years. I can’t think of a better way to kick off our 25th anniversary!”

The drone show is just the beginning of a year-long series of events and initiatives to mark Yorkshire Air Amblance’s milestone 25th anniversary.

Watch the breathtaking drone show and celebrate 25 years of lifesaving missions across Yorkshire by clicking here.

Yorkshire Receives an Early Christmas Gift as YAA Welcomes New Helicopter to its Fleet

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is delighted to announce the arrival of its third, brand-new, H145 D3 helicopter, G-YAIR, just in time for Christmas. Following a meticulous medical fit-out at Airbus Helicopters in Oxford, G-YAIR made its maiden flight into Yorkshire on December 19th, marking an exciting new chapter for the charity.

This latest addition to the fleet will join YAA’s existing aircrafts, G-YAAA and G-YORX, forming part of a rotational system that will ensure the charity remains operationally resilient. This vital addition will provide a no-notice replacement during scheduled maintenance, unexpected repairs, and mandatory crew training. By eliminating the need for leased aircraft during these periods, G-YAIR will enable YAA to maintain seamless lifesaving coverage across the region, ensuring operational availability remains as close to 100% as possible.

Steve Waudby, Director of Aviation at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, said, “The addition of G-YAIR to our fleet is a pivotal moment for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, significantly enhancing our ability to maintain uninterrupted emergency response coverage. This investment represents our unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of care to the people of Yorkshire, ensuring we are always ready to respond when needed”.

The H145 D3 helicopter is one of the most advanced models of its kind, boasting innovative features designed to enhance efficiency and patient care. These include a five-bladed main rotor that significantly reduces vibrations, ensuring a smoother ride for patients and crew alike, while integrated onboard Wi-Fi and secure communication systems allow patient data to be transmitted to hospitals in real time, enabling hospital teams to prepare for patients’ arrival before they land, saving precious time in critical situations.

Inside the cabin, the medical crew benefits from a modern wheeled stretcher system, making patient loading and unloading faster and easier. This system reduces the need for manual lifting, improving both efficiency and safety during missions.

As an independent charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies entirely on the generosity of the public to keep its vital service running. The arrival of G-YAIR strengthens the charity’s ability to provide uninterrupted, emergency care to the 5 million people living in Yorkshire and its visitors.

Abby Barmby, Director of Marketing & Communications at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, said, “The addition of G-YAIR to our fleet is a powerful reminder of the vital role we play in saving lives across the region. This achievement would not be possible without the steadfast support of our generous donors, fundraisers, and partners. Their continued commitment ensures that we can invest in state-of-the-art resources, like this new helicopter, and maintain the highest level of pre-hospital critical care. As we look toward 2025, we are excited to see the positive impact of our enhanced fleet and continue our mission to provide lifesaving treatment to the people of Yorkshire”.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Aims to Raise Over £20,000 in a Week to Fund Vital Crew Kit

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Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is proud to announce its participation in this year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, calling on supporters to help raise £20,420 in just one week. As part of the charities ‘Equipped to Respond, Ready to Save’ campaign, the funds raised will go towards replacing aging flight suits and helmets—vital protective equipment that keeps YAA’s lifesaving crew safe on every mission.

To reach this goal, YAA supporters must raise £10,210 during the campaign week, which runs from midday on Tuesday, 3rd December, until midday on Tuesday, 10th December. Every pound donated during this period will be matched by champion funder Candis and pledge funder Beadlam Tractor Run, effectively doubling the impact of every donation. Once the target is reached, they will each generously contribute £5,104, unlocking a total of £20,420 and making every contribution, critical to the campaign’s success.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s medical and aviation crew rely on specialised flight suits and helmets to perform their lifesaving work safely and effectively. These high-performance uniforms are designed to meet strict aviation and medical standards, providing vital protection both in the air and on the ground. As the demands of their work take a toll on this essential kit, replacing aging equipment is critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of YAA’s operations. Without this protective gear, the charity’s ability to respond and deliver exceptional care to patients across the region would be compromised.

Additionally, helmets are particularly vital for the team, as they are fitted with mounts for night vision goggles (NVGs), which are essential for safely operating YAA’s fleet of helicopters in low-light conditions or during night missions. Without NVGs, YAA’s critical care team would be unable to fly after dark, limiting the services operational hours.

Garry Brasher, one of YAA’s longest-serving pilots, emphasised the importance of this campaign, he said, “Our flight suits and helmets are more than just uniforms – they’re essential tools that protect us and allow us to perform our roles effectively. From the tough conditions we face on the ground to the complex demands of flying in Yorkshire’s varied landscapes, this kit is vital to keeping our team safe. The advanced equipment not only supports our daily operations but also aligns with our vision of creating a Centre of Clinical Excellence, ensuring we meet Civil Aviation Authority requirements. Replacing aging equipment is an ongoing priority, and we’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of those who support campaigns like The Big Give to help make this possible.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is participating in The Big Give for the second consecutive year. In 2023, the charity successfully raised £19,000, covering the charities then daily operational costs. As an independent charity, YAA relies entirely on the generosity and support of people across Yorkshire to fund its vital service, ensuring that the crew can continue to deliver lifesaving care to those in need.

Kerry Dwyer, Director of Public Fundraising at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her sincere thanks to all supporters ahead of the campaign. She said, “The flight suits and helmets we are raising funds for are vital to our crew’s safety and ability to perform lifesaving missions across Yorkshire. Thanks to our generous match funders, every pound donated during The Big Give will be doubled – turning a £10 donation into a £20 contribution, without any extra cost to the donor.

On behalf of everyone at YAA, I extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who is able to donate to our Big Give campaign. Whether big or small, every contribution will make a significant impact and without your support, reaching our target would not be possible”.

To learn more about The Big Give or to make a donation, please click here and help YAA reach its goal before midday on Tuesday, 10th December, to help keep the crew ready to save lives in the year ahead.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance volunteer nominated as regional finalist for ITV ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ at Pride of Britain Awards

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Woman in front of a helicopter smiling

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) is proud to announce that one of its dedicated volunteers, Jan Swallow, has been selected, alongside three others, as a regional finalist for the ITV Calendar North ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ award at the prestigious Pride of Britain Awards. This recognition comes after Jan’s incredible achievement of raising over £100,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, a cause that is profoundly close to her heart.

Jan’s nomination for the ITV ‘Fundraiser of the Year’ award celebrates individuals who have gone above and beyond in their charity efforts. The Pride of Britain Awards honours everyday heroes whose actions inspire and uplift. For Jan, this recognition highlights not only her dedication to fundraising but also the lasting impact her efforts have had on Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Jan’s fundraising journey began in 2009 after a tragic accident involving her son, Graham. In May 2007, Graham was involved in a serious motorbike accident on Snake Pass (A57), a road well-known for its sharp bends connecting Sheffield and Manchester. Graham hit a road sign, causing him to fall into a steep ravine, with his motorbike suspended from a tree above.  YAA’s critical care team provided crucial on-scene support, extracting Graham from the ravine in a rescue operation that took nearly an hour. Once freed, Graham was swiftly transported to Sheffield Northern General Hospital, where he sadly passed away.

In the wake of this devastating loss, Jan turned her grief into action, committing herself to raising vital funds for the charity that gave her son the best chance of survival. Since then, Jan has been unwavering in her support, helping Yorkshire Air Ambulance continue its essential service, which relies entirely on donations.

Using her creative talents, Jan and her team of knitter’s craft handmade knitted bears and other unique embroidered items to sell. These quirky and often cheeky designs have earned a loyal following, with 100% of proceeds from their sales going to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Earlier this year, at the Ravensknowle Children’s Gala, she reached the significant milestone of £100,069 raised for the charity. Jan is committed to her fundraising efforts and is determined to continue supporting Yorkshire Air Ambulance for as long as she can.

Jan expressed her gratitude for the nomination, she said, “I am truly humbled by this recognition. When I first started fundraising, I never imagined it would grow into something so significant. Now, it’s become such a meaningful part of my life. For me, it’s not just about raising money—it’s about giving back to Yorkshire Air Ambulance, a charity that has touched my life so deeply and continues to help so many others in their time of need.”

Helen Berriman, Interim Regional Fundraising Manager for West & South Yorkshire, who has worked closely with Jan throughout her incredible fundraising journey, said, “Having the privilege of working alongside Jan for so many years, I’ve seen firsthand her unwavering commitment and passion for Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Her tireless efforts, creativity, and the heart she puts into everything she does are truly inspiring. Reaching the £100k milestone is not just a testament to her hard work, but also to the deep connection she has with our charity. Her Pride of Britain nomination is so well-deserved, and we couldn’t be prouder of everything she’s achieved. Jan has been, and continues to be, an inspiration to us all.”

As Yorkshire Air Ambulance approaches its 25th anniversary, Jan’s story stands as a testament to the difference that one individual can make. Her contributions have not only helped keep the charity’s helicopters flying but have also inspired countless others to get involved in supporting this life-saving service.

From Fields to Funds: Knaresborough Tractor Run Raises £113k for Yorkshire Air Ambulance

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The Knaresborough Tractor Run organisers have celebrated a major donation milestone at a cheque presentation event hosted at the Yorkshire Air Ambulance Nostell Airbase in Wakefield.

What started from humble beginnings has since become a beloved annual tradition within the community, with hundreds of people travelling from far and wide to line the roads and watch the impressive display of over 370 tractors in action.

The North Yorkshire-based event is now considered one of the UK’s largest tractor run, with all proceeds going to the life-saving emergency service, Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Since the first tractor run in 2012, which recorded just eleven tractors taking part, the organisation has donated an impressive £113,341 to the charity.

As a thank you for their longstanding support, the Knaresborough Tractor Run logo now has pride of place on the charity’s newest helicopters.

back of helicopter

Regional Fundraising Manager, Linda Stead, said, “Celebrating the fantastic £113K fundraising milestone donated by the Knaresborough Tractor Run over the years is such an incredible achievement, and we are truly grateful for the support we have received.

 The Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies on the generous donations we receive to keep our helicopters maintained and in the air, so events like the Knaresborough Tractor Run are invaluable to us. We want to say a huge thank you to all of the organisers, participants, and supporters of the event for their dedication and generosity over the years in helping us to continue to save lives across Yorkshire.”

The Knaresborough Tractor Run, which was founded by members of Knaresborough Young Farmers, included Mike Spink, who was passionate about supporting the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. However, in 2017, Mike tragically passed away in a road accident in New Zealand, where he had relocated six months prior.

To honour his memory, the organisers of the tractor run decided to expand the run into the large-scale fundraiser known today. What was previously a casual gathering of tractors in Tan Hill and Whitby, became a more significant affair, and a heart-warming way to remember Mike and support a vital cause.

One of the event organisers, James Parker, said, ‘We are thrilled to support the Yorkshire Air Ambulance once again. From our very first planning meeting, we knew that YAA was the charity we wanted to support, given their vital role in our rural community. We have seen first-hand the incredible work they do, and we are proud to be raising funds to ensure that they can continue to deliver on their promise of helping to save lives.

 It’s a cause that’s close to our hearts, and we know that many of our participants, as well as their friends and families, have benefited from YAA’s services. We hope that our efforts will make a meaningful difference in helping YAA to continue their life-saving work’.

Click here to read more YAA News.

Cycling Group, including 2 Air Ambulance ex-patients, Tackle 275k ‘Chase the Sun’ biking Challenge

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The Bishop Monkton Next Challenge Cycling Club (BMNCCC is gearing up for an extraordinary cycling adventure as they prepare to take on the Chase the Sun Italy 2023 challenge to raise vital funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

The passionate cyclists will embark on a demanding 275-kilometre journey across Italy, starting from the east coast at sunrise and climbing to a 3300-metre elevation at the journeys peak, before reaching the west coast prior to sunset.

The motivation behind this ambitious adventure is deeply personal for the BMNCCC group, as two of their members have experienced first-hand the critical medical assistance provided by Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Ollie Coughlan, aged just 39 at the time, suffered a cardiac arrest in March 2018. He received immediate aid from his friends at the time who were able to use a local defibrillator in an attempt to restart his heart whilst they waited for the emergency services. Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s crew swiftly arrived at the scene in their Rapid Response Vehicle, used during poor flying conditions, and playing a vital role in his successful outcome.

More recently in January 2022, Ben Cairns, who works for North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and regularly works with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team, was involved in a cycling accident in a remote area of North Yorkshire, resulting in a broken hip, femur and ribs. Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s crew swiftly arrived at his aid, securing his leg, and flying him to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, where he received emergency surgery.

Scene of a bike accident with emergency services
Yorkshire Air Ambulance rushes to the aid of Ben Cairns after a cycling accident, providing critical care and airlifting him to hospital for emergency surgery.

Initially setting a two-thousand-pound fundraising target, the group has exceeded their goal in just two months, with donations from over 65 supporters. With 16 days still to go until the ambitious ride, the group are setting their fundraising goals sky high to make an even more substantial contribution to the emergency services charity.

Reflecting on his life-changing experience and the charity that aided him, Ollie said, “I will be forever grateful for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance crew’s fast response on the day of my accident. Now, I am determined to give back by actively fundraising for the charity, ensuring they can continue their life-saving work for others in need too’.

Ben adds, “We invite everyone to join us in this incredible journey by donating to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. None of us know when we might need their assistance, so let’s stand together and give back to this truly important charity.”

The cyclists will proudly don specially made orange bike jerseys, sponsored by Albion Cycling, featuring a holographic ‘Proud to be Supporting YAA’ logo, throughout their ride. Additionally, the group will be actively documenting their ride, capturing and sharing real-time pictures and videos and check-ins, for all their supporters to feel a part of their experience.

cycling jersey
The cyclists will proudly don specially made orange bike jerseys, sponsored by Albion Cycling.

Linda Stead, Regional Fundraising Manager at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the cyclists for their incredible support and dedication. This epic ride is not only a test of their endurance and determination but also a heartfelt initiative. Their fundraising efforts will help us continue flying across Yorkshire and saving lives.”

To contribute to the BMNCCC group’s fundraising efforts, visit their JustGiving page. Every donation will go towards ensuring the continuation of the vital service.

Click here to read more YAA News 

Wakefield Apprentice Makes ‘Bald’ Move for Yorkshire Air Ambulance

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Jack Dunwell, a 17-year-old maintenance apprentice from Wakefield, has braved the shave to raise an impressive £1000 to support the rapid emergency response charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Working at The Nostell Estate in Wakefield, which is home to one of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s operational air bases, Jack was motivated to make a difference within his local community. Although Jack had been growing his curly shoulder-length hair for a while, he made the selfless decision to part ways with his locks for a good cause.

A man with shoulder length curly dark hair standing in front of a stone wall
Prior to shaving his head, Jack’s curly hair reached his shoulders.

In addition to his cash donation for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Jack was also determined to support the work of Little Princess Trust by donating his hair to help make high-quality, human hair wigs for children who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments.

Speaking about his experience, Jack said, ‘I am thrilled to have raised £1000 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and supported the Little Princess Trust with my hair donation. It was an honour to support such worthy causes and make a difference in my community.

I always see the Helicopter flying over the Nostell Estate while I am working and wonder where the team are going and whose life they may be saving. I hope that my efforts can inspire others to contribute and help the charities continue their life-saving work’.

Initially setting a £500 target, Jack was thrilled to have received over £887 through his online Just Giving page. To help increase Jack’s target, his mother, Karen Chatterton, organised a luxury hamper to be raffled on the day for additional funds. The hamper raised £156, giving Jack an overall total of over £1000.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Reginal Fundraiser, Helen Berriman, attended the head shave and presented Jack with an official YAA Beanie to keep his head warm afterwards. She said, ‘We’re absolutely thrilled with Jack’s donation. It’s heart-warming to see such generosity from someone so young, and it’s truly inspiring to see Jack go above and beyond to support both our charity and the Little Princess Trust.

Man wearing a woolly hat and yellow charity T-shirt
Jack Dunwell, kept his head warm with his new YAA beanie hat after his head shave to raise funds for YAA.

We’re also very grateful to Karen for organising the raffle hamper, which helped Jack double his initial fundraising goal. Every penny counts, and with Jack’s £1000 donation, we can continue to provide rapid response, emergency medical care to those in need across Yorkshire’.

Read more Yorkshire Air Ambulance news.

From tragedy to triumph: Yorkshire Air Ambulance patient finds purpose after life-changing accident.

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On the 26th of June 2013, Sam Waddington from Bridlington in East Yorkshire was travelling home from work on his Motorbike when a car hit him whilst he was travelling at approximately 37 miles per hour, leaving Sam with life-changing injuries.

Sam, who at the time was employed as a sheet metal worker at a local factory, finished his shift early and hopped on his streetfighter-style Triumph Speed Triple motorbike to head home. Whilst Sam was weaving through bumper-to-bumper traffic, a car pulled out suddenly to access a slip road, ploughing straight into Sam as he passed by.

Sam was thrown from his bike, which was later found in three pieces, and passers-by including an off-duty police officer quickly sprung to action, calling the emergency services. Sam sustained many serious injuries, including a number of fractured vertebrae, broken femur, nose, collarbone, shoulder, and ribs along with many other scrapes and cuts to his skin.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance dispatched one of their helicopters and after an assessment on-scene, Sam was flown to Hull Royal Infirmary where he received lifesaving surgery before being placed into a medically induced coma for a week.

At the age of 24, Sam’s life was forever altered when his leg was amputated below the knee after doctors were unable to preserve it during his two-month hospitalisation.

Sam remembers how consultants originally told his family that his injuries were so severe that at the time of admission, his condition was really touch and go as to whether or not he would survive.

Sam was determined once he was home to commit to his physiotherapy, with his main goal to return to work. Sam recalled ‘When I was in hospital, time felt like a blur, but I knew when I was back home that would be when the real work really had to take place. I was keen to get back to work and have my normal life again’.

Sam reached his goal to return to work after an intensive 18-month recovery. However, as his life gradually regained a sense of normality, he felt his outlook on life had altered forever. Sam said, ‘I had a fresh prospective on life, and I knew there was so much out there to see… I came so close to death that I felt I had a second chance. It was time to make a change, and see the world’.

A man wearing a blue padded coat, grey shorts, brown woolly hat, and walking boots sits on a rock by some water. A small dog wearing a coat stands next to him. There are large hills in the background. The man has a prosthetic leg.

It was during his adventures across the globe, Sam met the love of his life, Amber, and the pair were soon married. The couple spent nearly five years backpacking around Europe, Asia, and America before returning to the UK to settle down. During this time, Sam also gained his personal Helicopter License and now relishes the opportunity to fly, only this time, under much happier circumstances.

Speaking on his travel memories, Sam said, ‘Sure, it would be amazing to have my leg back, but the things I have gone on to do and the people I have met and places I have seen have been incredible, and I wouldn’t have done them if I didn’t have my accident. If I still had my leg, I probably wouldn’t have met my wife, which seems so crazy to me!’.

Today, Sam works for Fletchers Group as Charity and Partnerships Coordinator. A law firm which is dedicated to supporting individuals with life-changing injuries for over 30 years.

When referring to his accident, and the people who helped to save his life, Sam said, ‘Without Yorkshire Air Ambulance, I honestly believe I wouldn’t be here today. The team were instrumental in getting me to hospital as fast as they did. Although I don’t remember much from the day, I cannot thank each and every person for their help, you have my utmost respect and gratitude.

To anybody who may find themselves in a similar situation to myself, and facing life as an amputee, just know – don’t give up on life. Things will get better, and I am living proof that with the right mindset, life can be an incredible thing, even without my leg!’.

A man wearing a blue puffa jacket, blue woolly hat, white or grey shorts, yellow socks and dark trainers is riding a skateboard and has a prosthetic leg.

Follow Sam’s adventures on his everyday_amputee Instagram page.

Read more Yorkshire Air Ambulance news.

Paralysed Former Air Ambulance Patient Takes on Ambitious Triathlon Fundraising Challenge

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Eight years after his life-changing accident, Martyn Piercy, 47, has his heart set on raising as much money as possible by creating his own triathlon challenge, to support the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) team that helped to save his life.

After an accident at work left Martyn with life-changing spinal injuries, the YAA team were dispatched and after an assessment on-scene, Martyn was immediately flown to Leeds General Infirmary where he was rushed into emergency 9-hour surgery.

Sadly, Martyn’s spinal injuries were too severe, leaving him paralysed from the waist down. However, after spending six months in a spinal rehabilitation unit, his positive ‘can do’ attitude ignited a determination to fight against his diagnosis and regain some movement in his legs, with a long-term aim to walk again.

A former stone worker, Martyn now considers physiotherapy his full-time occupation, seeing each day as a ‘shift’ to reach his mobility goals. Martyn said, ‘The biggest challenge for me is the mental process to keep going, taking the good days with the bad. I devote nearly five hours a day to physiotherapy exercises. I see it as an investment into my quality of life and a way to keep my life as normal as possible whilst living with my injuries’.

Determined to give thanks to the team who saved his life, Martyn has organised his own triathlon challenge around his hometown of Dalton in Thirsk, with the help of his cousin, Stephen Piercy.

The triathlon which takes place on the 7th of May has been adapted for Martyn, who will be completing a 100-metre walk in callipers, a 15-mile handcycle, and finishing with a 500-metre swim. Stephen will be supporting his cousin by completing a 6-mile run, a 15-mile cycle, and a 750-metre swim.

Stephen is no stranger to taking on athletic fundraising challenges, raising over four-thousand pounds for charity in 2019 whilst completing the Great North Run. Speaking of the decision to support his cousin, Stephen said, ‘I am incredibly proud of Martyn, his ambition and determination to complete this triathlon has been remarkable and I couldn’t be prouder. Thank you to everyone who has already donated, the money is going to an excellent charity, without which, Martyn’s injuries could have been significantly worse!’.

Tracking their training journey on fitness community platform Strava, the pair have shared training videos, training routes and personal best times. As a result, the cousins have received an influx of supportive messages cheering them on ahead of the big day.

Martyn said, ‘Throughout the years, I have always known in my heart when I was physically up to the task, that I was going to do something to give back to the YAA team. It was just a matter of ensuring I was fit enough to handle the challenge. I am forever grateful to the team, they immediately came to my aid and got me to the hospital as quickly as possible. I have no idea what would have happened to me if they weren’t there, the team saved my life that day.

I am so glad to Stephen for joining me on this challenge, he is more than family, he is a great friend, and I am so thrilled he will be there on the day by my side to keep me going’.

Initially setting a two-thousand-pound fundraising goal, in just one month, the duo has exceeded their target hitting £3,874. With a week left before their challenging triathlon, the pair are still working hard to encourage further donations and support.

Tessa Klemz, Regional Fundraiser (North), said, ‘Everyone at Yorkshire Air Ambulance is rooting for Martyn and Stephen. When we first heard of Martyn’s story there was a sense of awe in the room for how inspirational he truly is. We wish them both the best of luck for the big day!’.  

If you would like to support Martyn and Stephen, click here to visit their Just Giving page where you can donate.

Over 8,500 people across Yorkshire have received lifesaving care by the quick action of Yorkshire Air Ambulance service over the past 23 years. For further information please visit www.yaa.org.uk or to speak to the friendly team call 01422 237900.

Read more news from Yorkshire Air Ambulance here.

Hold on Tight: Super Soap Box Challenge Brings Fun and Funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance

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The Bradford Super Soap Box Challenge returns this Sunday, April 30th, and will be supporting the vital work of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, with funds raised on the day going towards helping the charity to continue its life-saving missions.

The busy streets of Bradford are set to come alive with the thrilling sound of chants and cheers from the lively crowds who will line the streets to watch over 20 teams compete in their homemade racing carts as they descend down a specially designed 200m course, all in support of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Throughout the day, prizes will not only be awarded to the race winners but teams will also be judged on the most innovative cart design, best turned-out Soapbox crew, sponsors choice, and joker of the day.

Set to shift into gear, ‘Team Grimwood’ from Keighley will also be raising their own personal funds to donate to the charity, in addition to the event organisers. The team’s creative soapbox has been modelled on one of Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s helicopters, complete with its G-YOAA registration number at the back. The team had initially aimed for a £300 fundraising target via their JustGiving page but have been delighted with the response from their local community, receiving over £1200 plus £250 in gift aid so far.

It currently costs £19,000 per day to keep both of Yorkshire’s air ambulances maintained and operational in the air. As an independent charity, YAA relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to operate and help save lives across Yorkshire.

The Bradford Super Soap Box Challenge is a free family-friendly event that encourages teams of all ages and backgrounds, promising to be an action-packed day with live music and entertainment. Tasked with organising the event, Andrew Pearson, events marketing director at The Super Soapbox Challenge Company, said, ‘We are delighted to be bringing the Bradford Super Soap Box Challenge back for its second year and to be supporting such a fantastic cause. The event was a huge success last year, and we’re confident that this year will be even better. We’re looking forward to raising as much money as we can for this vital charity’.

West Yorkshire Community Fundraiser at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Clare Deacon, will be in attendance on the day with a team of fundraising volunteers. Clare will be stationed at the event in a high-tech promotional vehicle, which has been specially adapted and designed to allow the YAA fundraising teams to bring a state-of-the-art immersive experience into local communities. Fully equipped with a replica cockpit, which features curved screens showing aerial footage of the ground, guests will experience how it feels to take off and fly through the skies of Yorkshire.

Clare said, ‘We’re thrilled to be selected as Charity of the Year for the Bradford Super Soap Box Challenge. The funds raised from this partnership will help us continue to provide our vital service to the people of Yorkshire.

We have attended the event in previous years and always had a brilliant time, our team is very excited, and we are all looking forward to seeing the teams in action and hope to raise as much as possible’.

For more information about the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and how you can support the life-saving work of the Charity, please visit www.yaa.org.uk.

Read more news from Yorkshire Air Ambulance here.