We can take our emergency services for granted until, that is, they are deployed to assist family and friends. Some of you will be aware that back in 2017 my Mum, Louise suffered a cardiac arrest and an emergency team that was assembled at incredible speed saved her life. My amazing sister Annabel immediately commenced heroic and effective CPR before handing over to a Community First Responder and an East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) Paramedic, who independently arrived at the same time, minutes after receiving the 999 call, and who were therefore able to work in tandem. A EEAST ambulance crew arrived shortly thereafter, and the whole team was backed up by the critical care resources delivered by a helicopter of the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT), including a Pre-Hospital Care Doctor. The incrediably swift support meant that my Mum was later able to be taken direct to Harefield Hospital by road ambulance, in a stabilised condition. Our family can never thank the team enough, but what we can do is acknowledge, in particular, the work of EHAAT, a charity, the cost of each mission being £2,700. Mum has, of course made a full recovery and we will be forever grateful for everyone involved.

I took up running in 2018 and following 12 half marathons, I have decided to take a plunge into the deep end and sign up for the Edinburgh Marathon, 26.2 miles along the East coast of Scotland on Sunday 29th May.  I have no doubt that this will be a huge challenge, however I am sure that raising money for the EHAAT will give me the determination to complete the distance at the end of May. Donations, no matter how small would be amazing.