In 2010, my Sister-in-Law Laura suffered from a Pulmonary Embolus (A blood clot in the lung) which in turn caused her to collapse and have multiple cardiac arrests. The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance was on site within minutes and it is due to their medical expertise and the quick transfer to Dorset County Hospital that Laura is still with us today.

A single call-out for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance costs around £3000 so every little helps!

However, as with any illness as severe as this one, the cardiac arrests have left their mark on Laura. Unfortunately she lost her eyesight and has suffered a brain injury, caused by oxygen starvation.  In the intervening 8 years, Laura has made great progress and continues to be determined, each and every day

Of course, its not just us who have benefitted from the Critical care from the Air Ambulance; many other lives have been saved by this vital service, which is entirely funded by charitable donations.

The Helicopter took a mere 3 minutes to reach Shaftesbury and then 7 minutes to reach Dorset County Hospital....I anticipate it will take me a little longer to cover the 960-ish miles I plan to ride.

Deciding to ride from Lands’ End to John O’Groats in 7 days will prove to be a big challenge, averaging 137 miles per day for a total distance of around 960 miles. I aim to finish a week today!