Natalie's Story.
In September 2008, 5 days after coming out of hospital with my new baby daughter, my son Ethan somehow reached up and pulled a hot cup of tea over himself from a work surface. The tea went over his chin, chest, tummy and arms; he was just 16 months old. At the time he was wearing several layers of clothes, however the damage to his skin was terrible.
My neighbour called for an ambulance, it arrived quickly along with your Air Ambulance. Most of what happened from the time of the accident to the next day in hospital is something I cannot fully recollect; I just wanted my son Ethan to be safe. It was such a frightening and surreal experience; my husband was away working in London and your Air Ambulance team were our lifeline.We were flown to Odstock hospital near Salisbury where Ethan was cared for in the Burns Unit. My newborn daughter was left with my trusted neighbour until my Mother arrived.
Ethan stayed in Hospital for 5 days with an Oyster shell dressing on. He only has scarring to his chin now, something that the doctors told me would fade as he gets older.As a precaution when going outside in the sun, he must wear a uv suit and factor 50 sun block.
Your team of medics and pilot did the most amazing job; in reducing Ethan's scarring by treating him with their expertise and by also getting him to the hospital so promptly. I was also told in hospital that children under 2 years of age can die of shock from this dreadful experience.
I can never thank them enough, but would like to show my great appreciation by raising funds to keep this charity going. This year I am running in the Great South Run to raise funds for the Air Ambulance.
I started by running about four months ago and am now enjoying it and get to do a short run in the evening and a longer one once a week when time allows. This year, I will be running with my brother and a friend, they are supporting charities of their choice also. I do hope that I can raise enough money to help you and would be more than happy to contribute in any other way possible.
Ethan is such a special son and at 2. 5 years old he is now telling people that Mummy is lunning (can't say running) for a chopper!!!
Thanks once again
Natalie Hurst
Phyllida's Story
Flying Granny, 71 year old Phyllida Carr from Petersfield, has taken up sky-diving to raise much needed funds for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Phyllida took part in a tandem parachute jump in June and has raised over £1,700 to date. Phyllida said ‘It all went brilliantly. Obviously I felt a bit apprehensive, but I didn’t feel any fear as I knew I was in safe hands. Luckily I am not scared of heights, and I would certainly do it again. I just wanted to do it for this wonderful, life-saving service. We never know when we might need these skilled people’ 
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Phone: 02380 333 377 | Reg. Charity No. 1106234
