Today I’m celebrating my 49th birthday - surrounded by friends and family and feeling incredibly grateful.

Just two weeks ago, my husband Tim and I were involved in a serious road traffic collision when another vehicle hit us head-on. We both sustained multiple injuries and had to be cut free from the wreckage taking nearly 3 hours to do so!

Thanks to the remarkable safety of our car, and the incredible emergency services, we are both here to tell the tale. Tim was taken to Lancaster Hospital by ambulance, while I was airlifted to Preston Hospital due to the severity of my injuries. The helicopter was the quickest and safest way to get me the urgent treatment I needed.

I can’t express how grateful I am that the North West Air Ambulance was available when I needed it, and for the outstanding care I received. Caroline, the HEMS paramedic by my side in the helicopter, was simply amazing, as was the first responder who reached us at the scene (I hope to find out his name soon). Their kindness, patience, and professionalism helped us through one of the most traumatic experiences of our lives.

All our emergency services really are the best.

If you are able to support by means of a donation or sharing this this, I’d be truly grateful. Every contribution helps.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Stephanie xxx