With most people starting to count down to the festive season, the charity Air Ambulance NI is encouraging the public to remember the air ambulance service.  When most of us will be off work and enjoying time with family and friends, the Helicopter Medical Service will continue every day.

During the month of December, the HEMS team anticipate being called upon on over 60 occasions.  Behind every one of those calls is a patient who is critically ill or injured.  The doctor and paramedic team bring the hospital direct to the patient, providing critical care at scene that can be the difference between life and death. It’s a service we all hope never to need, but is good to know it is there.

Glenn O’Rorke, Operational Lead of HEMS said, “As we come into the winter season the profile of missions starts to reflect the time of year and people’s activity.  For example, we may be called out to less sporting accidents at this time of year but more road traffic collisions.  Whatever has caused the critical emergency situation, our commitment to the public is to be there, day in, day out to look after the people of Northern Ireland.  The doctors, paramedics and medical equipment is the provision and governance of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS), but it’s never taken for granted by our team the support from the public that enables us to fly to the sickest people who need us, on average twice per day.”

The charity has many ways that people can help, as Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising explains, “We realise times are difficult, and want to thank everyone for their continued support. Any contribution this Christmas, will make a difference to a patient. One of the simplest ways of supporting is by becoming a member of our Club AANI or you can buy this for a loved one, adults or children alike.  Alternatively consider a stocking filler item from our online shop including Christmas Cards, Christmas tree baubles, dog bandannas or a beanie hat, or host a fundraiser at home or work like a Christmas Jumper Day.  We also have e-cards available if you’d rather donate in lieu of sending cards.  For more information, check out our website at www.airambulanceni.org”

The HEMS has been operational for 5 years and during that time has been called out on over 3,000 occasions.  It is provided by way of a partnership between the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and the charity, Air Ambulance NI.  Each day the charity needs to raise in excess of £5,500 to sustain and develop the service. You can contact the charity directly on 028 9262 2677 or by email on info@airambulanceni.org