Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) has revealed that they are called to assist over six critically unwell or injured patients on average every day, with one of those calls involving a child. Last winter, the charity’s specially trained crew responded to 131 calls involving babies, children, and teenagers, and they are on track to help a similar number this year.
However, these numbers represent more than just statistics, as each call is a family facing an unimaginable situation. With the support of the community, GWAAC’s crew can continue to provide life-saving care to children like Albie.
Baby Albie’s life was saved thanks to donations to GWAAC. In January 2024, at just three days old, Albie stopped breathing at home. Thanks to the quick response and advanced care provided by GWAAC’s specialist crew, Albie was able to make it to the hospital and receive ongoing care. Now, he is about to celebrate his second Christmas with his family, who are grateful to have him with them.
Albie’s mother, Victoria, shared, “When Albie was in the hospital and we were told he might not survive, we made ourselves a promise: never to complain about sleepless nights again. We haven’t always managed to keep it, but every night we get to hear Albie’s laughter or cries, we’re reminded what a gift that is – a gift we only have because people like you cared enough to donate to Great Western Air Ambulance Charity.”
Each call that GWAAC receives is unique, from a premature newborn to a 19-year-old, and from a sudden seizure or breathing difficulty to an accident at home, on the road, or while playing. Each call represents a family’s worry and a parent’s fear, but with the fast, expert help and equipment provided by GWAAC’s crew, it can make the difference between life and death.
GWAAC’s team is trained and equipped to provide emergency, on-scene care to children whose condition is so serious that they need immediate, specialized attention. This requires the support of the community, as GWAAC is a charity funded by the people it serves.
With the winter season approaching, GWAAC is asking for donations to their Winter Appeal. Every donation, no matter the amount, can make a difference in saving a child’s life. To support GWAAC’s mission, please visit gwaac.com/appeal.
