At just 3 weeks old our son, Theo, became poorly. We went to hospital and it became clear just how critical Theo’s state was. We received the devastating news that once he was intubated he would need to be moved to another hospital that contained a Paediatric Intensive Care. The next morning we got the shocking news that the closest bed for us would be in London. It was then we first heard about the Children’s Air Ambulance, we were made aware that this charity would be the team who was transferring us to London. The helicopter was sent down from Oxford to pick up a medical team from Bristol, to finally come down to Truro to pick Theo up. The team made me (mum) feel extremely comfortable, although this was a numbing experience all round. Once happy and confident with the set up we set off to the helicopter to get ready for flight. Our journey took us just 2 hours 3 minutes by air, rather than 5 hours 1 minute by road, this made all the difference when it came to Theo’s illness and treatment. The doctors were confident and happy with what they were doing, which in turn made us as parents rest just a little bit. We are very grateful for what the Air Ambulance team done for us a family and especially for everything they done for Theo, and in turn saved his life.
This month we will be running/walking the 268 miles that we travelled by helicopter to raise money for this amazing charity. They rely truly on the donations and support of you to enable the maintenance of the helicopter and be sure to help many other babies and young children all over the country to receive the care they need from a range of specialist hospitals. Each journey costs around £3500, but every penny counts to such an inspiring and selfless charity like the Children’s Air Ambulance. We will be forever grateful for what they done for us, just as much as they will be grateful for any support for them.