A doctor and a paramedic who work on the frontline for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance will be swapping a hospital helipad landing for a 15,000ft drop, as they take on the highest possible tandem skydive in the UK.
On Saturday 15 May Dr Frances Dolman and Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) Paramedic Nigel Harley will be free-falling over Old Sarum to raise money for the life-saving service which depends on charitable donations from the public.
The paramedic and doctor duo can usually be found treating the most severely ill and injured people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, providing emergency critical care at road traffic collisions, cardiac arrests, sporting injures and medical emergencies.
HEMS Paramedic Nigel Harley and Dr Frances Dolman
Dr Frances Dolman said: “We’re both very excited and equally as nervous. We’re used to flying at 2,000ft in all types of weather but never would we consider exiting the aircraft mid-flight! The support we receive from the public is amazing. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to provide life-saving procedures at the roadside, in people’s homes or places of work. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us and allowed us to continue being there for people in our region when they need us most.”
Nigel Harley added: “It’s a tough job at times but it’s incredibly rewarding, especially when we see a young child that’s been critically ill and is now at home with their family. The team has amazing individuals who are all dedicated in bringing innovative medicine to our patients and their families.”
The doctors, paramedics and pilots who make up the Critical Care Teams have already responded to more than 330 emergency call-outs so far this year. Each mission the charity attends costs on average £3,320.
To donate, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/fran-and-nigels-15000-ft-skydive
Limited spaces are still available to take part in the charity skydive on Saturday 15 May. Sign up today: https://www.goskydive.com/hampshire-and-isle-of-wight-air-ambulance/
