Why I’m Fundraising for a charity close to to my heart

My name is Michael, I’m currently 17 years old and I’m already a first responder for a private ambulance company straight from leaving high school.

Every time I put on my uniform and step into an ambulance, I’m reminded that emergencies don’t wait. They don’t care how old you are, how tired you are, or how prepared you feel. People call 999 on the worst days of their lives, and we show up ready or not, because they need us.

Yes, without a doubt working for a private ambulance company at my age has changed me some for the better, but admittedly some for the worse.

I’ve seen fear, pain, relief, vulnerability and gratitude up close. I’ve watched coworkers push through exhaustion, stress, and emotional weight just to make sure someone else gets another chance. These are people who dedicate their lives to helping strangers often without the recognition or support they deserve.

That’s why this fundraiser for North West Air Ambulance is so personally important.

Most people assume the life saving interventions performed by NWAA are supported my either the NHS or government. The reality despite their critical services is neither!

They are entirely dependent on us. Members of the public and donations to keep aircraft flying and ground crews rolling. In the short time I’ve been a first responder I’ve personally had medical backup provided on three separate occasions across the NW. It was on the last occasion in my horror, I learnt the nature of the funding model. This was the final straw that inspired me to fundraise for these two amazing charities close to my heart.

To me this field is more than a job to me….It’s my future. I want to grow in this profession and I want those who come after me and members of the public to have better support than many do now.

Therefore I’ve decided to set myself this challenge. 13.1miles, full ambulance uniform, and full basic response kit! Is it a challenge… As a non runner before today definitely, but the fierce determination shown by crews across the NW will and have inspired me to make it to the end!

If you’re able to donate, share, or support this fundraiser in any way, please know that you’re helping protect the people who show up when everything else falls apart.

Thank you for believing in me but also my aims to support as many people as possible both now and in the future. 🚑💚🇬🇧