On 21st November 2025, the warmth and compassion of a community shone brightly at The Lodge Hotel, Coleraine, as Christine Mitchell hosted an unforgettable evening of music, entertainment, and heartfelt fundraising in aid of Air Ambulance NI. The event was held in loving memory of Christine’s husband, Joey Mitchell, who tragically lost his life in an accident in May 2024. The same accident also saw Joey’s son airlifted by Air Ambulance NI to Royal Victoria Hospital.

Determined to turn her grief into positive action, Christine began her fundraising journey earlier this year by selling quiz sheets, raising an impressive £770. Her commitment and the overwhelming support of friends, family, and the wider community culminated in a beautiful night at The Lodge Hotel, where nearly 250 people gathered to celebrate Joey’s memory. Thanks to ticket sales and an extraordinary raffle, generously supported by local businesses, a remarkable total of £5,500 was raised to help keep the Air Ambulance flying.

Special thanks are extended to Steve Farlow, Niall Patterson, Katelynn Marie, Dessie Mac, Eugene O’Dornan, and to Alistair Coyles who stepped in as compere, Ivan Scott for printing posters and tickets, and to Alderman Richard Brown Stewart Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast & Glenns Council for attending the event and showing support to Christine and the charity.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising, of Air Ambulance NI, expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “We are deeply moved by Christine’s courage and the incredible generosity of everyone who attended and contributed. Joey’s legacy lives on through this support, which will help us continue to deliver critical care when it is needed most.”

Christine Mitchell shared: “This night was about Joey, about keeping his spirit alive through kindness and hope. I am overwhelmed by the love shown by everyone who came together for our family and for Air Ambulance NI. It means the world to know that, in Joey’s name, we are helping others when they need it most.”

Air Ambulance NI, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) provides the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS). The HEMS team are tasked on average twice a day to the most critically ill and injured patients, providing critical pre-hospital care. The service can reach anywhere in Northern Ireland within 25 minutes and is airborne within five minutes of receiving an emergency call. On a daily basis, £8,200 is needed in fundraising to sustain the service. The charity relies heavily on community support, such as Christine’s event, to keep the helicopter flying and saving lives, brains and limbs.