16:00, 20 November 2020
Words by Smiley Team, Staff Writer, London
Thames Valley Air Ambulance has launched an animated short film to showcase the charity’s emergency lifesaving services.
The animation centres on real-life former patient, 11-year-old Lucy, who experienced a horrific injury last New Year’s Eve.
Lucy herself lends her voice to the film as she retells the events of the night, how she felt and how the charity saved her life.
Lucy said: “I can’t explain how thankful I am for them, how they handled the situation. They are really amazing at their job. More than anyone I’ve seen. Now I’m able to play cricket again and go swimming."
The animation is part of Thames Valley Air Ambulance’s Christmas appeal to raise vital funds to ensure it can provide emergency medical care by air and land 365 days a year.
“Lucy is incredible and very brave, both for all that she went through and for sharing her story. We don’t want anybody to need our services but, as Lucy’s experiences show when they do, our crews are highly trained and ready for any eventuality. We bring the hospital to the patient, giving the best chance when the worst happens.” Amanda McLean, Chief Executive of Thames Valley Air Ambulance, said.
It costs the charity £3,000 to launch each helicopter mission and the charity receives no government funding, meaning they rely solely on donations to ensure they are able to help when they are needed.
We’re here to reach patients in crisis, day and night, 365 days a year. We receive no government funding, so any support you are able to give this Christmas will be very gratefully received. Thank you so much.” said Critical Care Paramedic Jo
To find out more about supporting the charity and their winter appeal head to https://www.tvairambulance.org.uk/appeal/
