The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) has written to supporters after seeing a dramatic drop in donations in support of their Ready For Anything appeal.
The charity says that while the public’s support has helped the team make a positive difference in thousands of lives, this year’s appeal has yet to reach the same level of success as previous years, with the charity only collecting half the amount they raised last year.
Andy Mawson, director of operations at GNAAS, said, “We understand that these times are challenging for everyone. But we urge people to remember the fundamental purpose of our appeal and the difference your donations will make to the lives of critically ill and injured people across the North.”
The charity says that every call-out costs the charity approximately £4,478 to attend, taking into account the helicopter costs and the prices of the medical equipment used to save lives.
The kit used supports the charity’s highly skilled doctor and paramedic team and the jobs they do, so they can be ready for anything.
They need to bring an extensive range of supplies as they never know what scenario will meet them on the other end of that helicopter flight. From blood and plasma to ventilator machines and laryngoscopes, it all goes with their critical care team on every mission to help them deliver the best care possible.
Taking all this kit means that the bags the team carry weigh up to 26 kilos each – the equivalent of carrying a 10-year-old child. The total cost of the items in these medical kit bags is approximately £36,000.
GNAAS relies solely on the public’s support; without their contributions, they cannot intervene effectively.
Mr Mawson added: “We work tirelessly to provide life-saving medical treatment to those who need it most. Your donation can mean the difference between life and death. We urge you to consider the positive impact that your donation can have on someone’s life today.
“Whether you are in a position to donate or not, we ask that you kindly help spread the word about our appeal.
“Together, we can make a difference, one person at a time.”
To find out more about your local air ambulance charity and how you can support them visit gna.as/readyforanything
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