The upcoming Moy Park Belfast City Marathon is not just a race; it’s an opportunity for the community to come together in support of a vital cause. With Air Ambulance NI as the designated charity partner, the focus isn’t solely on the miles covered but on the lives that can be saved through fundraising efforts. Lives like Hannah who had a serious road traffic collision on her drive to college: Hannah Babe was treated by HEMS after a serious RTC (youtube.com) The charity aims to fundraise enough to fund the service for a month and potentially help 60 patients. 

Grace Williams, Area Fundraising Manager for Air Ambulance, emphasizes the significance of the 1,000 runners’ collective endeavour, aiming to cover over 9,000 miles to support the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service.

Grace said, “This Sunday, May 5th, marks a crucial day for both our wonderful  participants and the cause they’re championing.  Together, we have the power to ensure that the medics of Air Ambulance NI are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively in times of crisis. Every donation counts, and donors like you play a pivotal role in ensuring the helicopter remains operational, ready to reach patients in need. Time before the event really is running out so please donate what you can here Fundraising Page of Team Air Ambulance NI (eventmaster.ie) When we give, we’re not only supporting a cause; we’re potentially saving lives. So, let’s rally together and make a difference. #otherslivewhenyougive”

Among the participants are inspiring individuals like Curtis McCosh from Cool FM, tackling his first-ever marathon in support of Air Ambulance NI. His determination echoes the spirit of the event, demonstrating a commitment to making a difference.

Additionally, there’s a poignant tribute to Adrian McCloskey, whose memory lives on through the efforts of over 200 people participating in his honour. Their presence symbolizes the resilience of the community and the enduring legacy of those we’ve lost.

Air Ambulance Northern Ireland needs to raise £2.5m per year to continue providing the HEMS in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service seven days a week for twelve hours a day.

The HEMS team is dedicated to providing urgent medical assistance to anyone in need, regardless of location, with the primary aim of saving lives, preserving neurological function, and preventing limb loss. Equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment and staffed by highly trained professionals, the service delivers emergency pre-hospital care directly to patients who are seriously ill or injured.

Operating at a remarkable pace, the aircraft can reach anywhere in Northern Ireland in approximately twenty-five minutes, ensuring rapid response to emergencies. On average, the medical team is called upon twice daily to respond to a range of incidents, including serious road traffic collisions, farm or workplace accidents, sport and leisure incidents, and medical emergencies.

Donate now here Fundraising Page of Team Air Ambulance NI (eventmaster.ie)   or contact the charity on 028 9262 2677 or email info@airambulanceni.org