On September 27th, my partner and I will be jumping out of a plane to raise money for East Anglian Air Ambulance - a charity very close to my family’s hearts.

In January 2023, my youngest son Harley was stabbed multiple times in a planned attack. He suffered 9 stab wounds, mostly to his vital organs, along with 2 defence wounds. He was just 16, and a not affiliated with knives or any weapon.

Due to the severity of Harley’s injuries and the rupture to Harley’s heart, every second was crucial and Harley never left critical condition - requiring immediate attention from the Air Ambulance force and medical expertise. They performed open heart surgery at the scene of the stabbing to keep Harley alive, and he was then rushed to Royal Papworth Hospital by land, with his heart being manually pumped the entire 30 minute journey.

Harley fought hard through 2 long days and countless surgeries, with exceptional care being provided throughout. However our worst nightmare came true, and multiple organ failure meant we had to say our final goodbyes to Harley.

Whilst the pain of losing Harley has been unbearable, East Anglian Air Ambulance prompt action and skill gave my family and I two days of hope and meant my boy was surrounded by his loved ones in his final moments, buying us time to travel to hospital and hold him for the final time - something I have taken comfort in throughout my grief.

I am forever indebted to the Air Ambulance staff and would love to give back in any way I can.

East Anglian Air Ambulance receives no regular government funding and relies entirely on the support of the community.

They provide advanced critical care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to the most seriously ill and injured people across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire by air and by road. Their crews are called to, on average, 8 critical emergencies a day, with each tasking costing in the region of £4,250.

Thank you so much for your support.