THIS year charitable income at Devon Air Ambulance (DAA) has been hit hard due to the hundreds of fundraising events cancelled throughout Devon.

For the first time, the charity is asking for the public’s help this year in reaching out to the people of Devon to support its Christmas 2020 Appeal, "There to Care".

Small cake sales and fundraisers planned by families and individuals, through to the many village shows usually held throughout the year simply disappeared overnight.

Due to the uncertainty of whether groups would be able to gather in larger numbers, the charity was also forced to cancel the three main events in its fundraising calendar: the Motorcycle Ride out, Dragon Boat Festival and the Royal Marines Commando Challenge, all of which have been enjoyed by many over the years.

So far this year, the combined loss of income for the trust is almost £2 million, leaving a huge hole in the finances of this life-saving service.

The year 2020 has been tough, but Devon Air Ambulance says it is proud to have overcome the obstacles it’s faced and to have maintained its service throughout the pandemic. The charity has remained ready to respond whenever and wherever it is needed, and when every second counts.

The "There to Care" 2020 Christmas Appeal features former DAA patients who have shared their stories and experiences, both to reinforce their gratitude and to raise awareness of the incredible skill of the aircrew and medical teams that were there to care, during what might have been the worst moments of their lives.

Patients like Harry for whom the run-up to Christmas 2016 was one that the Tansley family from Exeter will never forget, as on December 20, the then eight-year-old Harry had a freak accident that left him fighting for breath. 

Harry, with his dad, Simon, and brother, Ben, was out on his scooter on Exmouth seafront when he toppled, and the handlebar of his scooter caught him in the throat as he fell. The effect was immediate. Harry had a tear in his windpipe causing air to form under his skin with every breath he took.  

Simon immediately called 999 and first responders were swiftly on scene but called for emergency back up from Devon Air Ambulance.

A helicopter with two paramedics and a Doctor was despatched, as well as an emergency car with a further two paramedics. Harry’s face, chest and stomach was swelling with every breath and upon arrival at the scene, DAA’s Critical Care team quickly assessed and began to treat their young patient. You can read more of Harry’s story along with others on the DAA website by visiting: bit.ly/DAAPatientStories .

One thing is certain, a charity like Devon Air Ambulance is one none of us would want to be without: real people, saving real lives, bringing relief and much-needed support to the loved ones of those it attends.

Show that you care this Christmas and help to support the Devon Air Ambulance There to Care appeal by visiting: www.daat.org/caring-this-christmas .