Hilary explains, “I was thinking I had a great evening ahead in Belfast with biking friends, I was really looking forward to it.  I was coming along the well-known Glenshane Pass and just came off the bike.  I have no memory of it of course, and that’s probably better. The big damage was to my head – I had a bleed on the brain and injuries to my face so having the medical team arrive quickly by air ambulance really made a difference. From the airbase to the Glenshane is only about a 20-minute flight.”

Recently I visited the air ambulance in Lisburn where the helicopter and medics are based and had the opportunity to see the aircraft in a different set of circumstances.  I was also able to meet the pilot who had flown the medics to the scene that day – he remembered my incident and I was so touched by that.  I also met one of the doctors who was able to explain about the breadth of interventions the team are able to provide at the scene.  Knowing that the Glenshane was turned into an intensive care unit is quite remarkable!

As a biker, I was always aware of the air ambulance service but never expected to need it.  I encourage everyone to support this service which relies on charitable fundraising and contributions.  This year felt like the right time for me to do a fundraiser and I had a rock music night in the Brigade cricket club.  I was able to help the air ambulance and Headway who have been a great support to me.  I’ve also started volunteering with the air ambulance and am thoroughly enjoying it.”