A 5k memorial walk was organised in memory of the late John Traynor by his fiancé Ann McBride and close family members in aid of Air Ambulance NI. On 26th January 2022 John was tragically killed in an accident whilst working in Carrickfergus, he was just 41 years of age. The Helicopter Emergency Medical Service was first on scene but tragically John died from his injuries. Ann and John’s mum wanted to do something to give back and held the memorial walk on his birthday as it meant his loved ones could be together. A total of £2348 was raised.
Ann said, “Our lives have changed forever since the loss of John. We miss him every day, but this was a lovely way to honour his memory and help someone else. Thanks to everyone who took part in the walk and donated to this worthy cause.”
The charity Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, provides the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) for Northern Ireland. The service brings urgent medical assistance to anywhere in the province, operating seven days a week for 12 hours per day. The HEMS team attend patients who are seriously ill or injured, bringing emergency pre-hospital care direct to the casualty with the aim of saving lives, brains and limbs. The aircraft can reach anywhere in Northern Ireland in approximately twenty-five minutes and £6850 is needed in fundraising every day to keep it operational.
Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at the charity said, “We would like to thank Ann and John’s family for their fundraising in his memory. It is very touching that they have chosen to help a future patient. No one knows when they may need the services of the air ambulance but with continued support it is there for every one of us. Please follow us on social media or visit the website www.airambulanceni.org to find out about how to support or becoming a member.”