Saving Time, Saving Lives

Real life stories

Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance is there for the people of Scotland, 12 hours a day, every day.  We save and improve hundreds of lives every year, attending medical emergencies and trauma incidents that require urgent and expert medical attention. If SCAA was there for you when you needed help, and you'd like to share your story, please contact communications@scaa.org.uk.

Here are the real life stories of just some of the people we've helped. If you'd like to support SCAA and our life-saving work, click here.


Debbie's Story

Tossed and trampled by a 700kg cow

Debbie's Story

Debbie's Story
  • Trampled by a 700 kg cow in a rural location
  • Broken leg
  • Spleen and kidney damage
  • Punctured lung
  • Crushed ribs
  • Seven litres of blood lost

When medics examined Debbie’s battered and broken body at her family farm near Tomintoul, they knew that speed would be a determining factor in saving her life – and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance was there to fulfil that critical race against time.

Debbie was tossed and trampled by a cow when she went to help one of its twin calves. Horrifically injured, she managed to crawl free of the animals and reach the farmhouse, 150 yards away, where she slumped exhausted onto her knees on the kitchen floor.

“I didn’t feel any pain at that stage,” said the mother of three. “I went into survival mode and adrenaline spurred me on to seek help.”

That help came in the form of Debbie’s husband Andy who, spotting the farmhouse door lying open, stopped his Jeep and went to investigate.

“I shouted to him to call an ambulance and them slumped onto the dog’s soft mattress on the floor,” she said. “He’s a firefighter and knew first aid so he recognised I was in serious trouble.

“He explained what had happened to the emergency services and they immediately opted to send a helicopter. In hindsight, it was a decision that saved my life.”

Debbie knew she was seriously injured. The cow had not only tossed her but had also trampled on her – forcing its 700 kgs down on her legs and body.

“I’d started getting very sweaty which is a sign of internal bleeding,” she said. But all we could do was wait for help to arrive.”

SCAA, a land ambulance and two doctors from Inverness all arrived at the scene within minutes of each other.

“I remember the red suits,” said Debbie. “The pain was starting to build, and I remember screaming when one tried to move my leg.

“I don’t remember exactly what was happening to me but I did hear someone saying, ‘we need to get her out of here now’.”

Debbie is in no doubt the speed SCAA got her to critical care at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary saved her life. The flight took 20 minutes – a journey that would take around 90 minutes by road.

“If it wasn’t for the air ambulance, I doubt I would have survived,” she said. “Their fast actions allowed me to be whisked into emergency surgery which proved life- saving – and just in the nick of time. I remember being urged to sign the surgery agreement form as quickly as I could by the doctors and them shouting ‘someone call her husband NOW’.

“I had a punctured lung, my spleen had to be removed and three quarters of my liver was damaged,” said Debbie. “I had crushed ribs, a broken leg and was told that I lost seven litres of blood in the accident.”

Debbie spent nine days in hospital – four in intensive care, four in the high dependency unit and one on the ward – and doctors were astounded at how quickly she recovered from her injuries.

Just weeks after surgery, she made an emotional visit to SCAA’s Aberdeen base where she met one of the crew who had helped save her life.

“That was very emotional, to say the least,” she said. “A young paramedic who had been involved was the same age as my youngest son and he was delighted to see me looking so well after what I’d been through.

“It was so nice to meet people who care passionately about helping others and to be able to thank them for saving my life.

“SCAA is a national treasure and we should all support it if we can,” said Debbie. “You never know when you might need it – I certainly never thought I would.

“All I know is that without SCAA I wouldn’t be here and so many other lives would be lost as well. For my part, I’ve vowed that those two little calves – when old enough – will be sold to raise funds for SCAA so that they can be there for the next person whose life depends on them.”

Clive's Story

An act of kindness leads to a fall from height

Clive's Story

Clive's Story
  • Fall from height onto concrete
  • Double open leg fracture
  • Dislocated ankle
  • Excruciating pain
  • Airlift to hospital for several operations

 

Saving a bumble bee from the skylight in his workshop barn proved a costly act of kindness for Clive Warren from Banff.

For as he climbed up to help the trapped insect and release it outdoors, the ladder slipped from beneath him and he crashed to the concrete floor below.

"I took one look at my leg and knew it was serious," he said. "I called my wife to ask her to phone 999, telling her not to come in until she'd done so. I didn't want her to panic until she'd made the call."

Clive's leg was a bloodied mess and after the first rush of adrenaline receded, the pain became excruciating.

"The emergency call handler was telling my wife what to do and kept reassuring her that help was on the way," recalled Clive. "We then heard this deafening roar outside and my wife said 'You'll never believe it, but a helicopter has just landed on our lawn'.

"I've never been so relieved to see anyone in my life," said Clive. "SCAA is one of the three charities we support and they more than lived up to all my expectations of a great service charity."

SCAA's Helimed 79 had airlifted a critical care team from Aberdeen to ensure Clive received vital attention in the fastest possible time as there was no doubting that he had caused himself serious injury from the 999 phone conversation with his wife.

Working with a SCAA paramedic, the team quickly assessed and stabilised Clive, ensuring that his pain was treated immediately.

"I could tell it was bad," said Clive. "The bones were sticking through the skin in two places and my ankle was distorted and twisted. By the time the team got to work, however, I was comfortable, pain free and on my way to hospital.

"Every one of them was outstanding - so professional, so caring and so reassuring. I knew I was getting the best possible care."

Clive spent six days in hospital, undergoing several operations for a double open fracture and a dislocated ankle, mending breaks in the bone and skin with pins and fixings.

He faces a long road to recovery but he's in no doubt that SCAA played huge part in reducing his suffering.

"I'll be forever grateful to SCAA," he said. "Their speedy arrival with critical care ensured my injuries were treated quickly and skilfully.

"SCAA is an outstanding charity - we've supported it for a while and now I can speak with confidence about how great it really is.

"The speed they got to me made a huge difference. I was in pain and my wife was in distress. SCAA helped ease both.

"Everyone in Scotland should support this amazing charity - you just never know when it's your turn."

At 76, Clive has no intention of letting his injuries impede his enjoyment of life longer than they have to.

"I want to drive again," he said. "Get back on my motorbike and also turn in a decent card at golf.

"I'll still be rescuing bees from the skylight but I've promised to get a fixed ladder put in place."

Clive Warren before his accident

Mel's Story

A truck on the wrong side of the road

Mel's Story

Mel's Story
  • Road traffic collision in remote area
  • Broken back in two places
  • Seven broken ribs
  • Broken collar bone
  • Shattered right knee
  • Broken ankle
  • 13-minute flight to hospital care

The last thing Mel remembers before entering a world of fear and pain was the front of a large black truck bearing down on their small hatchback car.

“It had started out such a lovely day,” she said. “My husband Simon and I were heading off to climb Ben Lomond and looking forward to a day in the hills.”

On a sharp bend just short of the Ben Lomond car park, however, a large pick-up truck on the wrong side of the road concertinaed the couple’s vehicle and left Mel’s life in serious danger.

As emergency services raced to the scene, Mel sat in the front passenger seat unable to move yet aware she had sustained serious injuries.

‘People at the scene pulled me from the wreckage – afraid it might catch fire,” she recalled. “I couldn’t breathe properly or move. They laid me on the ground and I remember thinking – this is it. It all ends here.”

Miraculously, Simon walked free of the wreckage unharmed but Mel was not so fortunate.

“There were voices all around me, asking my name, telling me an air ambulance was on its way. I didn’t think I was going to make it at that stage but I had a real sense of calm – a sense of the inevitable.”

When Mel next opened her eyes it was to see a red suit beside her and a Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance paramedic taking charge.

“SCAA’s paramedics were amazing – so calm and reassuring,” she said. “I felt I was in safe hands.

“I heard them saying they had to get me over a hedge and I was aware of being lifted over it and placed in the helicopter. “SCAA paramedics never left my side – they were something professional and soothing to cling on to.

“I began to have hope – thanks to these guys I might just make it.”

A 13-minute flight later and Mel was safely delivered to the Major Trauma Centre at Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital where they discovered she had broken her back in two places, had seven broken ribs, a broken collar bone, a shattered right knee and a broken right ankle – all requiring major surgery.

It took Mel a year to recover sufficiently to go back to work and almost a year to the day from her accident, she was fit enough to climb another mountain.

“SCAA helped save my life when we crashed that day,” said Mel. “When I saw that black truck filling the road in front of us there was no time to react – just a horrible, gut-wrenching sense of the inevitable.

“SCAA came at the darkest of times for me and made a truly awful situation so much better with their professionalism, expertise, speed and calming reassurance.

“They helped me fight – they brought me hope while carrying out their job spectacularly well..

“That amazing crew wrapped me in a sense of – ‘we’ve got you, we’ll get you through this, you’re going to be OK’.

“Now I understand how the charity works I realise what a privilege it was to have them attend me,” added Mel.

“Every time I see them flying now I wonder what sort of miracle they’re off to perform? They’re just amazing.”

Stuart and Cameron's Story

Bleeding on a frozen hillside

Stuart and Cameron's Story

Stuart and Cameron's Story
  • Serious leg injury
  • Minus 10 degrees on a frozen hillside
  • Hypothermia due to exposure
  • Airlifted to hospital with dog Oakley

An injured Arbroath hillwalker and his father have praised the crew of Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance who saved their lives by plucking them and their dog from a frozen hillside when a festive hike turned to near disaster.

Student PE teacher and ski instructor Cameron Currie and his dad Stuart, both highly experienced climbers, set off up Kilbo Pass in the Angus Glens on December 27th to scout out potential ski touring options for the coming season.

Near the top of the pass, however, Cameron slipped and fell, tearing open his knee to the bone on jagged rocks.

"I felt a jolt of pain but didn't realise how bad it was until I saw all the blood on the snow and the deep wound across my knee," he said. "I flexed my leg and knew nothing was broken but every move made the wound bleed more."

The pair realised that getting themselves off the hill was not an option and Stuart refused to leave his son behind to seek help.

Luckily, being experienced outdoorsmen, they had packed extra thermal layers and survival bags and Cameron had fallen at the one spot on the exposed hill that had mobile phone reception.

"We were aware of the conditions on the hill and had equipped ourselves accordingly," said Cameron.

"We called the emergency services, gave them our co-ordinates, layered on more clothing, staunched the bleeding with an extra fleece and hunkered down in our survival bags awaiting help," said Cameron. "My dog Oakley has been walking on the hills with me for years so he snuggled in beside us and I protected him from the wind with our rucksacks."

With temperatures plummeting to minus 10 degrees, however, the open hillside proved brutal for the trio and it became a race against time to get them to safety.

Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance's Helimed 76 based at Perth had been scrambled in response to the emergency and was soon at the scene.

"I can't describe the relief we felt when we saw SCAA coming over the ridge towards us," said Cameron. "They spotted our bright orange survival bags and landed just above us.

"We immediately saw it was a SCAA helicopter from its livery. We got a bit emotional then - just relief at knowing we would be rescued and be alright. We had read of the amazing work these folk do and knew we were in very capable hands."

SCAA Lead Paramedic John Pritchard said that despite having all the correct gear, Cameron and particularly Stuart were still hypothermic due to their exposure on the freezing hill.

"We immediately set up our extreme weather kit which includes a bothy for shelter, heat pads and thermal blankets," he said. "Once safely out of the cold and the injury assessed, we got everyone into the aircraft and 12 minutes later they were at Ninewells Hospital. Tayside Mountain Rescue Team was standing by to provide back-up but we were able to airlift the two patients - and Oakley - straight out of danger.

"It's the first time we've had a dog on board but he was a model passenger," said John. "He just offered a paw when the rotors started and Cameron held on to it as we took off to reassure him. He then sat throughout the flight as good as gold."

Cameron's serious leg wound was treated and stitched and he was released from hospital later that evening. Stuart was allowed home after showing no lasting effects of hypothermia.

"It's hard to imagine that what should have been a relatively simple hike for experienced walkers could turn so concerning so quickly," said Cameron.

"We had observed all Covid regulations and stayed within our local authority area for our walk, had all the right gear and were both fit and healthy.

"If I hadn't fallen, we would have been off the hill and back in the car as planned before the weather closed in."

And both Cameron and Stuart were quick to heap praise on the SCAA helicopter crew who saved their lives.

"We can't praise them enough or thank them enough for what they did to rescue us," said Cameron. "I was overwhelmed by their caring expertise and professionalism and the quality of service they gave to Dad and I. Things could have ended very differently without them out on the hill.

"We felt so safe and comfortable in their care and will be forever grateful that they came to our aid that day. SCAA is an extraordinary charity and we're so lucky to have them when things go wrong."

Euan's Story

Crushed and broken by an 800kg cow

Euan's Story

Euan's Story
  • Crushed by a cow while working
  • Snapped pelvis front and rear
  • Pelvis was severed from spine
  • Complex surgery required

When farmer Euan Baird and his cousin were administering routine medicine to young calves, an anxious mother decided she didn't want to be separated from her youngster - a move that would almost prove fatal for the 52-year-old farmer.

For, as the 800 kg cow crushed against Euan in a funnelled metal barred handling area in a desperate bid to reach her calf, he felt the bones snap in his pelvis amid excruciating pain.

"I knew straight away that something was seriously wrong - I could feel that something had snapped inside me," he said." I roared and the cow pulled back. If she'd pressed on she would have rolled me over and crushed me to death - I had nowhere to go."

Luckily the cow pulling back allowed Euan and his cousin to escape the handling area and call an ambulance.

"My wife and cousin got me into a chair but the pain was getting even worse and I felt I was going to pass out," recalled Euan. "I was frightened - I didn't know how badly injured I was or what the outcome would be. It's a terrifying situation and I was near total collapse with the agonising pain.

"Then I heard a helicopter approaching and as it circled overhead I knew it was an air ambulance - Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance goes over here all the time so it's a familiar sight.

"I've never been so relieved to see it."

SCAA landed in a field beside the farm and paramedics were quickly assessing Euan's injuries and administering welcome pain relief.

"They were amazing - so professional and caring," said Euan. "I was so glad to be in their hands and so relieved. I dared to think I would survive this and come through it OK thanks to their help.

'They came to my aid so quickly and then flew me to hospital in just minutes. I don't want to think what that journey would have been like in a road ambulance - I would have felt every bump in the road."

X-rays and cat scans revealed that Euan had snapped his pelvis front and rear, severing it from the spine. Complex surgery followed to stabilise the bone while pins and plates were inserted to graft the pelvic structure back together.

"I'm out of action for a while as far as farming goes but doctors expect me to make a full recovery in time," said Euan following a two-week stay in hospital.

"I was in the wrong place at the wrong time that day and I paid the penalty," he said, "but it could have been a lot worse and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to SCAA for coming to my aid so quickly. It's an incredible charity and I'll be forever grateful.

"I don't want to think what could have happened if they hadn't been there." 

Euan Baird

Brandon's Story

A broken neck in an inaccessible location

Brandon's Story

Brandon's Story
  • Motocross accident
  • Inaccessible quarry location
  • Four broken vertebrae in neck
  • Three months treatment wearing head and neck brace

Many people played a part in Brandon Bissett's chain of survival the day he broke his neck in a motocross accident. But the 22-year-old apprentice plant fitter from Fife is in no doubt that Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance's role was among the most important.

"I don't know what I would have done without them," he said. "They got me out of an almost totally inaccessible location and made sure I got to specialist surgical care in the fastest possible time with the minimum impact on my injuries."

Brandon's day out on the trail bikes with his Dad at a popular disused quarry turned to terror when his front wheel hit a concealed root and he was catapulted over the handlebars.

"I managed to pull off my helmet and then realised I couldn't sit up or move my body. It was terrifying," he said. "I was conscious and could move my arms and legs but I knew something was seriously wrong."

As Brandon's Dad stayed at his side to comfort him, fellow bikers set off to get help and guide an ambulance crew along an overgrown disused railway line to reach the quarry.

"They knew there was no way they could get me out by road so an air ambulance was called," explained Brandon.

"It really lifted my spirits when I heard SCAA approaching and landing nearby. Shock was setting in, I felt freezing cold and in a lot of pain.

"The SCAA paramedics were absolutely amazing - calm, reassuring and comforting," recalled Brandon. "They cut my clothes and put on a neck brace. I didn't know at this stage how serious my injuries were but I knew I was in the best hands possible."

Friends, family and bystanders all helped paramedics carry Brandon on a stretcher across difficult terrain to reach the waiting helicopter and within minutes he was airborne and making the short flight to the Major Trauma Centre at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

Scans showed Brandon had broken four vertebrae in his neck as he underwent a series of tests.

“There were times when I thought the worst,” he admitted. “Would I be paralysed, would I ever walk again? These dark thoughts go through your mind but I had to push them away and think positively. SCAA had got me to hospital carefully, comfortably and quickly - they’d given me the best chance of coming through this.”

Brandon’s optimism paid off and after a tortuous three months wearing a metal head and neck brace, he’s well on the road to an expected full recovery.

“It’s a miracle,” he said. “I owe so much to everyone who helped me that awful day - from fellow bikers, family, emergency services and bystanders - but I know it was SCAA that made the difference. I will be forever grateful to an amazing charity.”

Brandon on his motocross bike

Jamie's Story

A moment's distraction leads to a painful accident

Jamie's Story

Jamie's Story
  • Quad bike accident
  • Remote location
  • Broken ribs
  • Internal bleeding

A moment’s distraction led to a painful accident for ghillie Jamie when his quad bike rolled on a steep bank and threw him crashing into nearby rocks.

Dazed and seriously injured, the estate worker attempted to drive on but collapsed, unable to continue his ride across the remote Angus glens landscape.

“Luckily, we always carry radios, so I was able to call for help,” recalled Jamie. “Colleagues found me about 10 minutes later and managed to get me back to the main estate house where they laid me on a sofa in front of the log fire.”

While adrenaline had fired Jamie’s initial responses, shock had started to set in and pain levels were rising.

“I couldn’t stand up,” he said. “The pain in my back and shoulders was excruciating and I knew I had injured my hip and stomach. I started to really worry.”

Jamie’s workmates quickly realised there was something seriously wrong and dialled 999.

Within 15 minutes SCAA’s helicopter was landing on the road outside.

“I worried that I was wasting everyone’s time,” said Jamie, “but I was so glad to see the team – I knew I was in safe hands with them.

“They stopped the pain, kept me calm and my spirits up,” he said. “They were so professional and reassuring – just the best you could hope for when you’re in a world of pain and fear.”

After assessment and treatment at the house, SCAA airlifted Jamie to Major Trauma Centre care at Dundee – just a short flight away – where he was treated for two broken ribs and internal bleeding.

“Who knows what damage would have been done if I’d been taken that long bumpy journey by road,” said Jamie. “SCAA made it speedy and comfortable, ensuring I was in hospital as quickly as possible with no further trauma to agitate my injuries.”

Jamie was able to leave hospital the following evening, with enforced bed rest at home thereafter and a six-week recovery period before he can return to work.

“I count myself lucky,” he said. “It was a simple accident – a moment’s inattention and your world turns upside down. It could happen to anyone.

“SCAA is making a huge impact on the welfare of rural workers and residents like myself and it’s a huge comfort to us all to know that they are there when things go wrong.

“Working in Scotland’s remote countryside is a real pleasure but we’re all aware that it carries risks and help can take some time to reach you,” added Jamie.

“Luckily, I had SCAA on my side – they were fantastic, just brilliant. They have helped people I know in the past and now I have personal experience of what a phenomenal and vital service SCAA provides for rural Scotland. I owe them a huge debt of gratitude.”

Jamie Field

Duncan's Story

The day I died seven times

Duncan's Story

Duncan's Story
  • Cardiac arrest in remote location
  • Aircraft defibrillator used seven times to shock patient
  • Flight to hospital through heavy weather
  • Fast transfer to critical care vital to survival

Duncan Stevenson from Biggar suffered a heart attack while walking in remote Highland Perthshire on February 22 last year. A land ambulance from Crieff made the long journey to reach the patient and stabilised him before setting out on the nearly two hour drive to hospital at Dundee in worsening winter road conditions.

With time against them, the ambulance crew requested air support and SCAA was deployed and arranged to rendezvous with them at an approved landing site at Lochearnhead and airlift the patient the rest of the way.

"We'd come through some heavy weather getting there but nothing to suggest it was going to get any worse," explained experienced former SCAA pilot Captain Shaun Rose. "We had to skirt round some snow showers and expected a similar challenging journey to Dundee."

Land and air ambulance crews worked together to transfer the patient to the helicopter but no sooner was he comfortably settled in than he suffered his first cardiac arrest.

Paramedics used the aircraft defibrillator to shock his heart back to a steady rhythm and - happy that the patient was stabilised but also knowing that time was crucial - the helicopter lifted and started through the harsh winter weather toward the critical cardiac hospital centre at Ninewells in the quickest possible time for the patient.

"Although he was sitting up and talking to us, the patient's condition did give cause for concern and we set out all the appropriate cardiac life-saving and resuscitation kit we might need ready to act quickly," explained SCAA Lead Paramedic John Pritchard, who was on crew with Paramedic colleague Richard Garside.

The paramedics' foresight was to prove prophetic as their patient was to "die" a further six times in mid flight with the medics fighting for his life every step of the way. Luckily for everyone on board, pilot Shaun had over 8,000 flying hours and 10,000 missions behind him as he called on his significant experience to safely conduct the flight in challenging winter weather conditions.

The crew continued to resuscitate their repeatedly arresting patient, carrying out CPR, airway management and ventilating. "We were so focussed on our patient that - although we were well aware of the challenges Shaun was facing - we had plenty going on ourselves," said John.

Their patient Duncan, however, remembers little of the drama unfolding around him.

"I don't remember much apart from coming to occasionally and experiencing the helicopter and team getting buffeted by the extreme weather," he said.

Thanks to the expert in-flight care from the paramedics, Duncan was not only alive when the helicopter landed safely at Ninewells, but was also well oxygenated and suffered no brain function issues as a result of his repeated arrests.

He was rushed to the catheter lab for treatment and has since made a full recovery.

"I was in hospital for three days and had a stent inserted to the problematic artery," said Duncan. "Amazingly, I was sitting up in bed later that first evening piecing together what had happened and thanking my lucky stars that SCAA was there for me."

His life-saving team, however, admitted to being physically and mentally drained and required some well-earned "down time" before leaving the hospital.

"It was without a doubt the most difficult flight of my career," said Shaun. "And I've faced many, many challenging situations in the air.

"Afterwards, we just slapped each other on the back, had a hug and then collapsed with a cup of tea.

"The conditions meant the paramedics were working on a constantly shifting and tilting platform. They were amazing - real pros."

SCAA's crew also paid credit to the work of everyone else involved in the chain of survival that day including ambulance crew, police, air traffic control and hospital teams.

But Duncan is in no doubt who played the major part in his survival that day.

"One of the medical team at Ninewells Hospital told me how lucky I was to have been brought in by helicopter as I had arrested several times and needed to get to critical hospital care pretty quickly - a road ambulance in that weather with me constantly arresting would never have made it in time.

"I owe SCAA my life. I don't think I would have made it without them. When no one else can reach you - they hopefully can. I'm testament to that and their commitment to saving lives even in the most challenging circumstances."

Martha's Story

A freak accident leads to severe injuries

Martha's Story

Martha's Story
  • Bruising on the lungs
  • Three fractures to pelvis
  • A fractured spine, cheek and nose
  • Two separate bleeds on the brain
  • Airlifted to hospital in under 15 minutes
  • Induced coma for two days

She was the last person 80-year-old Bill would ever have wanted to hurt. But in a freak accident, he lost control of his automatic car and ploughed into his wife Martha as she stood nearby.

The impact threw her into the air before she fell and rolled several times on to the tarmac, severely injured.

As neighbours rushed to help, the car smashed on through two gardens before coming to rest.

Martha remembers nothing of the accident, but Bill recalls the horror of the crash and the part Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance played in the race against time to get Martha from Peterhead to critical care at Aberdeen’s Major Trauma Centre.

“She was obviously very badly injured,” said Bill, “with blood pouring from a head wound and damage to her body and face. She was highly agitated and difficult to control and the road ambulance crew which arrived said she needed to be calmed down.”

A Trauma Team then arrived – effectively bringing the A+E department to the accident scene - and they decided to call in an air ambulance.

SCAA scrambled from Aberdeen and landed at a nearby sports ground.

“After sedation, Martha was taken to the helicopter and she was in ARI less than 15 minutes later,” said Bill. “That speed, stability of aircraft and the expert level of service helped save Martha untold trauma.”

Martha was kept in an induced coma at the hospital’s high dependency unit for two days. She had suffered three fractures to her pelvis; a fractured spine, cheek and nose; bruising on the lungs and two separate bleeds on the brain.

“Getting expert medical help to her so quickly and getting her into the hospital in a matter of minutes was undoubtedly a key factor in supporting Martha’s life,” said Bill. “They’ve ensured she’s with us today and that’s a blessing we can never repay.”

Five months on, Martha has made a remarkable recovery and she’s helping Bill put the trauma of their darkest day behind them.

“We just want to help SCAA where we can,” she said. “It’s the most wonderful service and we’re happy to try and raise some support for them among friends and business contacts.

“SCAA helps keep families together and that’s a wonderful service for those who fear they may lose loved ones when illness or accident strikes.”

Now Martha and Bill hope to travel to SCAA’s Aberdeen airbase to meet the crew who attended her that day and thank them all personally.

“We can never thank them enough for being there for me and showing such care,” said Martha. “Although I don’t remember anything of the incident and the aftermath, I know I was in the best hands possible and that is hugely comforting.”

Jason's Story

Horror motorcycling accident

Jason's Story

Jason's Story
  • Catapulted into a field 25 ft beyond the impact zone
  • Suffered multiple life-threatening injuries
  • Spent 11 weeks in hospital
  • Beat all the odds

 

The last thing Jason remembers was turning his motorcycle onto the road outside his Fife home with the intention of heading to Anstruther for a fish supper.

His memory has blocked out the horror of colliding with a car on a bend in the road minutes later, being catapulted over a 12 ft hedge and landing, smashed and bleeding, in a field 25 ft beyond the impact zone.

Seven days later, Jason regained consciousness in Ninewells Hospital's Intensive Care Unit.

And after hearing of his ordeal and the life-threatening injuries he had sustained, Jason determined he would walk into Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance's airbase and shake the hands of the crew that saved him and say 'thank you'. A little over three months later - against all the odds - an emotional Jason did exactly that.

"I wanted to meet the guys whose speed and professionalism ensured I survived," explained the 47-year-old operations manager with Wood Group.

"Without them I really believe I wouldn't be here today - I owe them my life."

Jason's list of horrendous injuries which kept him in hospital for 11 weeks - several of them life-threatening in their own right - included: two broken knees; a bleed on the brain; fractured hip; broken pelvis; broken ribs; two shattered wrists; four spinal fractures; fractured shoulder joint; broken collar bone; fractured jaw; fractured eye socket; severed nerves in the left arm and snapped tendons in the left hand.

"I know I'm lucky to have survived," said Jason, "and the surgeon told me I was lucky to have been airlifted comfortably and quickly or the story might have been very different."

SCAA Lead Paramedic John Pritchard was one of the crew who flew to Jason's aid.

"It was a critical accident scene," he said. "Jason had multiple injuries - several of them life-threatening - and our priority was to work with the two land ambulance crews at the scene to make sure he was stabilised and his most serious injuries managed for the flight to Dundee.

"We did feel there was a chance he wouldn't make it - and if he did he would probably be left with complex physical and psychological problems.

"To see him walk into the base and shake his hand is just terrific," said John. "It really gladdened our hearts. It's a testament to the care and rehabilitation he has received, coupled with his sheer determination and commitment to get better.

"We were just one link in the chain of survival that day and it's very humbling that Jason wanted to say his thanks in person."

Jason's amazing ongoing recovery means he will soon be able to travel to his native South Africa to see his first grandchild.

"The little one will get a Grandad thanks to the team at SCAA," said Jason. "It is an unbelievable charity and I'm so glad they were available for me that terrible day. I am in no doubt I would simply have slipped away because of the extent of my injuries without them on my side."

Willie's Story

"Every part of me was crushed, broken or damaged - from my collar bone to my ankles,"

Willie's Story

Willie's Story
  • Road traffic collision with deer
  • Car then hit tree
  • Woke up 65 days later in hospital
  • Multiple roadside transfusions and subsequent operations required

As the bounding deer landed in the open-topped sports car, its hooves smashed into Willie's ribcage and sent the vehicle hurtling out of control - straight into a tree.

The freak countryside accident saw the fibreglass kit car disintegrate on impact and Willie left fighting for his life with multiple critical injuries.

As firefighters, ambulance crew, police and a specialist trauma team battled to save Willie at the roadside, Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance was scrambled in a desperate bid to get the injured driver to life-saving hospital care in time.

"The deer came out of nowhere," recalled Willie, an agricultural fencing contractor well used to driving Scotland's rural roads. "There was nothing I could do.

"I remember the crushing pain as the animal landed on me and remember hitting the banking and flying towards the tree. Then I just drifted in and out of consciousness in a world of pain - pain like I've never experienced before.

"I remember hearing sirens, soft voices and questions I couldn't respond to. Then it all went black."

Willie woke up 65 days later in Ninewells Hospital.

"Doctors and family told me how my life had been literally ebbing away at the roadside," he said. "I was given multiple transfusions by Tayside Trauma Team but they couldn't fully staunch the bleeding. If SCAA hadn't airlifted me in time I could have bled to death at the scene."

Willie spent four months in hospital being "rebuilt", with multiple operations to piece his broken body together again with plates, bolts and grafts.

"Every part of me was crushed, broken or damaged - from my collar bone to my ankles," said Willie. "I couldn't even lift a spoon to my mouth and I had to learn to walk again.

"There were days I thought about just giving up and then I thought of SCAA and all the others at the scene and in the hospital who had battled so hard to save me and knew I had to fight on for them."

Three years on, Willie still walks with a limp and finds certain tasks too demanding or painful to undertake.

"But I'm alive," he said. "My family have their husband, father and grandfather back."

Willie says he owes his life to so many people who played a crucial role that day - but he's in no doubt the life or death race against time was won for him by SCAA.

"SCAA helped save my life when every second counted," he said. "No one expected me to make it to hospital alive - I was dying. But SCAA's speed, expertise, efficiency and professionalism ensured I had the best fighting chance possible.

"I'd seen SCAA in action at an accident scene before and witnessed what a slick and professional outfit it is. It's only when you are on the receiving end of their care, however, that you realise what a vital lifeline the charity air ambulance is in Scotland.

"I can never thank them enough. I wouldn't have made it without them."

 

Libby's Story

A freak accident

Libby's Story

Libby's Story
  • A freak motorbike crash
  • Shattered tibial plateau
  • 5-hour operation

As her motorbike crashed down on her leg, Libby knew something had gone seriously wrong.

Amateur trials rider Libby was making her way between live stages at the competition circuit near Laurencekirk when - after cresting a river bank - she was forced to put her foot down to avoid hitting a stile.

"It was just an unfortunate freakish accident," she said. "I had been riding motorbikes since I was 18-years-old without mishap and then without warning - you're in all sorts of trouble and pain."

Libby's foot had caught on a tree stump and the momentum pulled the bike over on top of her trapped leg.

"I just lay there with the bike on top of me," she said. "I couldn't move and the pain in my lower leg was excruciating."

There were plenty of other riders around and they lifted the motorcycle off Libby.

"I couldn't feel my foot," she explained. "It was then I saw that my leg looked twisted. I grabbed my thigh and pulled it towards me, straightening the lower leg. It was agony and I started hyperventilating."

As colleagues wrapped Libby in coats and put a jacket under her head, emergency help was on its way to the remote and fairly inaccessible location.

Fellow members of the trials club set out to guide the road ambulance in and then Libby was told that an air ambulance was just minutes away.

"I heard the helicopter coming in overhead and everyone sheltered me from the downwash as they landed nearby," she said. "SCAA's paramedics gave me pain relief and calmed me down. Somehow, just having the air ambulance there reassures you that everything will be alright."

Crew and bystanders had to lift Libby on a stretcher over a barbed wire fence to get her to the waiting helicopter.

"I was so emotional - just shock, probably, and the morphine. I kept remembering how the last words my husband said to me that morning were: ' take care - we need you back in one piece."

"I just burst into tears at that point," said the mother of three. "It was such a relief - everything was going to be OK. The two guys from SCAA were just wonderful. So calm and reassuring."

Libby was aware of SCAA's work through the motorcycling community but never for a second thought she would need the charity's amazing service.

"You hear about them on the news and read about them in the papers but you never fully understand what a truly amazing charity this is," she said. "I am in awe of all the emergency workers involved that day. The level of care was amazing and getting me off that circuit and safely to hospital was absolutely seamless."

Libby was flown within minutes to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where she spent three days before she was transferred to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee for a five-hour operation to insert plates, screws and artificial bone in her damaged leg.

"The consultant said I had turned my tibial plateau (knee) into crazy paving," she said. "It was in so many pieces.

"SCAA's involvement was life-changing," added Libby. "If SCAA hadn't been there I don't know how they would have got me down the rough track to a road ambulance or how bumpy the onward journey would have been without advanced pain relief.

"SCAA made all the difference. The kindness, professionalism and care of the paramedics, the comfort and speed of the helicopter and the constant reassurance that everything would be fine, oh and the dose of advanced pain relief. I can't begin to say how grateful I am to them. They're the best."

David's Story

A glider crash leads to multiple injuries

David's Story

David's Story
  • Glider crash after release at 500 feet
  • Trapped face down in wreckage
  • Broken arm, dislocated shoulder, hip and leg injuries
  • Internal injuries, face lacerations and nerve damage

David knew within seconds of his glider taking to the air on a cable winch launch that he was in trouble. 

"I hadn't locked the canopy properly and I knew I was in a very dangerous situation." 

As soon as he released the glider at 500 feet, David elected to try a full 360 degrees turn and head back to the airfield at Scotlandwell. 

"If the canopy flew off it could hit the tail or there would be enormous aerodynamic drag on the open cockpit. Either eventuality would be disastrous," explained David. "I was struggling to turn her as I was trying to hold on to the canopy, open the flaps for the air brakes and operate the controls. 

"I gripped the control between my knees and that's when things went from bad to worse," he recalled. "The aircraft went into a dive, the canopy came off and the bracket broke my arm - I didn't have control of the aircraft in the seconds before impact." 

David's glider struck the ground at 70 mph, nose down, and cartwheeled before coming to rest upside down at the front of the airfield. 

"I was still conscious after the impact but I was trapped face down," said David. "I knew I hadn't broken my neck as I could wiggle my legs and feet but I couldn't see anything out of my right eye and my right arm looked like it had two elbows." 

David bravely used his good left arm to manoeuvre his badly fractured right arm back into a natural position. 

"The pain was excruciating in my eye and that overpowered the pain in my arm," he said. 

David's crash was witnessed from the airfield and help arrived quickly with people switching off the battery and reassuring him that an ambulance was on its way. 

"SCAA was next to arrive - I didn't hear the helicopter coming in but people told me they were there and I was aware of calm, reassuring professionals being at my side which was extremely comforting," said David. 

"My harness was cut free and a local farmer used his tractor to lift the aircraft off me, leaving me on the ground and the paramedics able to tend me more easily. 

"It's all a bit hazy but I knew I was in safe hands," he said. "They were brilliant - calming me and reassuring me while stabilising me and preparing me for the helicopter flight. It just seemed minutes later that we arrived at Ninewells Hospital." 

David's catalogue of injuries included a broken arm and dislocated shoulder, hip and leg injuries, internal injuries, face lacerations and arm nerve damage. 

"I have made around 600 flights and that day I made a stupid mistake that brought me as near to death as I ever want to come," he said. "I had been looking forward to a long flight ahead of a family gathering for my 70th birthday the following day and instead I 'celebrated' it lying broken and battered in a hospital bed." 

A year on, David still has health issues resulting from the air crash. But he's in no doubt SCAA played a major role in supporting his life that day. 

"Being airlifted rather than bumped along the road made a huge difference and the speed SCAA got me to hospital was also a major factor in my treatment and recovery," he said. 

"SCAA is a brilliant charity - their care is faultless - and they were there for me when I stared death in the face as I plummeted towards the ground and helped pull me through. A thank you seems so inadequate but I do thank them - from the bottom of my heart."

David talks with SCAA paramedic Wendy, who responded with Helimed 76 to his glider accident.

Adrienne's Story

A walk in the hills takes a dramatic turn

Adrienne's Story

Adrienne's Story
  • A simple slide when walking rendered Adrienne completely immobile
  • Resulting in a limb threatening injury if left untreated for too long
  • Spent two days in hospital undergoing surgery

A walk in the hills took a dramatic turn for Adrienne when a simple slide rendered her completely immobile - and miles from anywhere.

"My foot slipped on the wet grass and I heard this horrendous crack," she recalled. "I crumpled to the ground in agony, knowing I had broken something."

What Adrienne didn't know was that her ankle had snapped and had turned through 180 degrees, leaving her lying helpless with a limb-threatening injury more than 1,500 ft up the West Lomond Hills.

Luckily, hair stylist Adrienne from Larbert was walking with her partner Davie and two friends at the time and they immediately called 999.

The emergency services then activated a tracker on Davie's phone to locate the accident scene.

As they comforted Adrienne and tried to keep her warm, the group was relieved to learn a Mountain Rescue Team had been called in but knew they faced a hazardous stretcher carry down the rugged hillside.

"Then we heard an air ambulance had been called," said Adrienne. "By this stage I was cold and a little in shock but still calm and comforted by the fact that help was on its way.

'It didn't seem long before I heard the helicopter approach and I remember thinking - everything will be OK now."

Content there were now enough people on scene to move Adrienne, the emergency services stood down the Mountain Rescue Team as SCAA landed on a flat area above the group and paramedics immediately swung into action.

"One look told us we were dealing with a serious break," explained SCAA Lead Paramedic John Pritchard. "One that could prove limb threatening if left untreated for too long."

SCAA then set up a temporary "bothy" shelter to protect Adrienne and the paramedics from the elements.

After administering strong painkiller, paramedics realigned Adrienne's foot to restore blood flow and splinted the joint before she was carried by crew, friends and passers-by to the waiting aircraft further up the hillside.

"The paramedics were amazing," said Adrienne. "So calm and professional. They explained everything they were doing to me in detail to keep me reassured and comforted.

"They told me it would hurt so I just kept breathing in the Entenox and I was fine while they worked on my ankle."

Adrienne was flown to Ninewells Hospital at Dundee within minutes where she spent two days undergoing an operation to reset her ankle.

She had no sooner recovered than she was striding out again - this time with some friends to raise funds for SCAA, securing nearly £4,000 on her sponsored canal walk.

Reflecting on the day of her accident, Adrienne is full of praise for the charity team that flew to her aid.

"I honestly don't know what I would have done without SCAA that day," she said. "The charity provides a vital service in Scotland and I can't thank them enough for what they did for me."

Lucy's Story

Trapped following car crash

Lucy's Story

Lucy's Story
  • Lucy and a friend were trapped in the back of a two-door vehicle
  • Passers-by raced to help the students
  • SCAA were on scene within 20 minutes
  • Fractured clavicle, serious whiplash injuries & two hand fractures

Glasgow School of Art student Lucy was looking forward to a trip to the West Coast with friends. But as she travelled north on the A9 near Dalwhinnie, the car suddenly veered off the road and rolled before coming to rest on its side.

Two men in the front pulled themselves free of the wreckage but Lucy and a friend were trapped in the back of the two-door vehicle.

“My friend was squashed beneath me but we couldn’t move. I could feel my face was hurt, there was blood on my hands and my neck and back were really painful. I was frightened.”

Passers-by raced to help the students and emergency services were quickly on the scene, assessing injuries and stabilising the vehicle before cutting the girls free.

“I felt more calm when the firefighters and ambulance crew were there – the first I was aware of the helicopter air ambulance was when I was being loaded into it.”

The potential of serious neck and back injuries prompted the call to Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, who were on scene within 20 minutes. SCAA airlifted Lucy to hospital in Dundee – just 25 minutes by air but nearly two hours away by road.

Lucy was diagnosed with a fractured clavicle, serious whiplash injuries and two hand fractures. She is still undergoing physiotherapy and treatment for PTSD.

“SCAA is an amazing resource for Scotland. Everyone thought my injuries were worse than they turned out to be but if they had been critical, SCAA would have played a key role in saving my life. As it was, their speed, professionalism and care made a huge difference to what was a really traumatic experience.”

Lucy and her family were unaware of the charitable status of SCAA but when they found out they pledged to do something to help. Lucy’s mum Sarah works with PwC in their Edinburgh office. She managed to secure a £1,000 donation from her colleagues and their staff charity GAYE scheme.

“We’re so grateful to SCAA for being there when Lucy needed help. Their input made a huge difference and we’re happy to do what we can to ensure they keep flying for others in similar need.”

“The crew were lovely – they kept me talking and made terrible jokes while they monitored and cared for me during the flight”

Alistair's Story

River kayaking accident

Alistair's Story

Alistair's Story
  • Alistair broke his back in two places
  • "Without SCAA it could have been a different story"
  • SCAA flew Alistair to hospital in under 10 minutes
  • Nine weeks after his accident, Alistair was back in his kayak

It was an adventurous manoeuvre Alistair had done many times before. But when the front of his kayak struck something as he pushed over the 15-foot drop from the bank into the River Avon, the 39-year-old mechanical engineer knew he was in trouble.

Alistair broke his back in two places as the kayak slammed down hard on the water below and the boat rolled over trapping him helpless beneath the raging current.

“My mates managed to drag me free and haul me to the bank,” recalls Alistair. “The pain was excruciating and I was so cold. I was aware of people around me, cutting my clothes from me and wrapping me in blankets and heat pads. Every minute seemed like an hour. Then I heard the helicopter overhead and people told me I was being airlifted to hospital.”

Search and Rescue, Scottish Ambulance Service and Police Scotland all helped SCAA paramedics carry Alistair from the steep-sided Avon Gorge to the waiting helicopter.

“It was a real struggle to get me up the steep slope and through the undergrowth,” he said. “The pain was unbearable – every step they took was agony for me.”

SCAA flew Alistair to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in under 10 minutes.

“The paramedics were great – very professional – and the treatment on route to hospital was fantastic.”

Alistair also praised the speed and comfort of the charity air ambulance.

“I dread to think what pain and discomfort I would have been in travelling by road,” he said. “SCAA’s speed and comfort makes a huge difference when you’re in agony and every movement is torturous.”

Alistair spent several days in hospital and a further six weeks on crutches as he pushed himself to get fit again. And nine weeks after his accident, Alistair was back in his kayak.

“The trick is to go over a fall into the river at around 70 degrees so that you slice safely and smoothly into the water below,” he said. “When my kayak clipped something and it sent me off the bank horizontally that day I knew it was going to hurt. Hitting the water was like hitting concrete.

“I’m nearly back to full fitness again but without SCAA it could have been a different story. They got me quickly and comfortably to hospital and that made a huge difference.

“SCAA is a top notch team and a charity well worth supporting – my friends saw the part SCAA played in my rescue and we’ll be doing what we can to fundraise.”

Alan's Story

Cardiac arrest on the golf course

Alan's Story

Alan's Story
  • Devastating heart attack while playing golf
  • 15-minute flight to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
  • Triple heart bypass days later

There are few things retired GP Alan Smith enjoys more than a round of golf.

But a game with friends at his home club of Turriff turned to a race against time when Alan collapsed with a devastating heart attack.

"I was on the sixth fairway when I just keeled over," he said. "I don't remember anything from then until waking up in hospital."

Unknown to Alan, his collapse sparked a rapid and life-maintaining response from fellow golfers, club staff and the emergency services. And the speed and professionalism of Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance was to prove a life-saver when every second counted against the critically ill patient.

As Alan's golfing partner commenced CPR, club officials raced from the clubhouse with a defibrillator to kickstart his heart and SCAA's Aberdeen-based Helimed 79 lifted with a consultant-led team to bring critical care as quickly as possible to the patient.

"I owe my life to everyone who acted so quickly that day," said Alan, "from the cool-headedness of my fellow golfers and officials whose care proved crucial, to SCAA and the specialist crew who basically brought the accident and emergency department expertise to my side by helicopter as I lay on the golf course and then airlifted me so speedily to hospital."

Alan was taken straight to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary's Cath Lab for immediate cardiac care and five days later underwent a triple heart bypass.

SCAA's helicopter made the flight in less than 15 mins - a journey that would have taken nearer an hour by road.

As Alan reflects on what might have happened that day, he recognises SCAA's crucial role in his survival.

"SCAA is a wonderful charity and absolutely indispensable for those living, working or visiting communities far from major hospitals," he said.

"I came as close to losing my life that day as you would ever want to come and I'm in no doubt that the speed of SCAA saved my life."

Alan Smith

Maria's Story

When speed and comfort matter

Maria's Story

Maria's Story
  • Equestrian accident in remote spot
  • Multiple bones fractures
  • Major surgery required to repair leg, ankles and snapped ligaments

Maria thought she had miraculously escaped injury having landed on her feet as she fell from her horse.

But the sickening crack of bone as she hit the ground told her something had gone horribly wrong - and she was miles from anywhere on a remote hillside.

"I tried to stand but the pain was terrible and I just crumpled to the ground," explained the 21-year-old NHS 24 call handler. "I'd previously broken an ankle and I remember thinking 'oh no, not again' as I lay there."

What Maria didn't know was that her injuries were far worse. She had broken both ankles and her lower leg and would require major surgery before she would walk again. The immediate problem, however, was how to get help to Maria and get her to hospital.

Luckily Maria had been riding with two friends and her father had come with them to the hillside cross country course for a training session. An air ambulance was seen as the fastest, safest and most effective way to reach Maria and Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance answered the call.

"I felt a huge sense of relief when the ambulance service told me SCAA was on it's way," recalled Maria. "Although it was August, it was a foggy day and I was lying in long wet grass. The pain was becoming unbearable and I was shaking with distress and shock.

"You can't describe the feeling when you see SCAA landing nearby and the paramedics rushing to your side. You immediately know everything will be alright - they'll take care of you and help take the pain away."

SCAA paramedics assessed, treated and prepared Maria for the short flight to hospital where she spent five days undergoing major surgery to repair her leg, ankles and snapped ligaments with the use of nine pins and a permanent plate.

Eight weeks off work followed along with intensive physiotherapy but Maria knows she was lucky to have SCAA on her side.

"I knew a road ambulance would never reach me on the hill," she said. "I'm so grateful that SCAA was called and able to reach me so quickly. "The team was just brilliant - so kind, so professional and so reassuring.

There are hundreds of people out in remote parts of the country - living, working or taking part in leisure pursuits - who should take comfort from the fact that we have a resource like SCAA to reach us when things go horribly wrong. I'll be forever grateful."

Bronte's Story

A simple error

Bronte's Story

Bronte's Story
  • Airlifted from the Angus countryside
  • Fractured lower vertebrae
  • Concussion

Bronte and her horse were nearing the end of a perfect round - but as they took off for the final jump on the demanding cross country course at Kirriemuir, both rider and horse made a simple error and Bronte was catapulted through the air.

"I remember taking off on the jump," recalled the 28-year-old logistics co-ordinator from Ellon. "It was a 90cm brick wall with a one metre drop behind onto grass and we both misjudged it. Next thing I remember clearly was coming to in hospital."

As others raced to Bronte's side, emergency services were called to get the unconscious injured rider to hospital as quickly as possible. A helicopter was best placed to reach Bronte in the depths of the Angus countryside and Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) was quickly on scene from it's Perth base.

"I remember nothing of their arrival or their care - just a vague recollection of kind reassuring voices and gentle handling," said Bronte. "SCAA seemingly flew me to advanced care at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee in just a few minutes. I hate to think of the lengthy journey and discomfort I would have faced without them."

The experienced rider sustained a fractured lower vertebrae and concussion in the fall but was released from hospital later that same evening - hugely grateful to everyone who had helped.

"It's not until you experience their work first hand or see it in action that you realise what a vital and valuable service SCAA is," said Bronte.

"They are amazing. I was injured in a field in open countryside and they were able to land and pluck me to safety.

"I got off lightly and I'm hugely grateful to SCAA for their part in keeping me safe and properly cared for - I don't take their vital role in my care and recovery for granted for a single moment.

"I have witnessed some catastrophic accidents in the equestrian world and speed and professionalism can make all the difference to an injured rider's chances - SCAA brings both those qualities to the scene and we're so lucky to have them in Scotland."

"The ironic thing is that I've long dreamed of going up in a helicopter - it's on my wish list," said Bronte. "Now I have and I don't remember a thing about it!"

Paul and Alison's Story

A rural lifeline

Paul and Alison's Story

Paul and Alison's Story
  • Two members of the same family needed help within 3 weeks
  • ATV crash in a remote area 
  • Equestrian accident on a beach

Many families have cause to be grateful for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance’s life-saving service – but few have seen two members of their family benefit from the charity-funded air ambulance within three weeks of each other.

PAUL:

It was mid-summer when the eight-wheel all-terrain vehicle Paul and a friend were in somersaulted several times down a steep slope near Dalnaspidal before coming to rest against a large rock. “We both thought that was it,” said Paul. “We were going to die – and then the rock arrested our fall, stopping us dropping hundreds of feet more.”

Both were trapped in the vehicle with serious leg wounds. “I managed to crawl clear and then levered the vehicle off my mate with a wooden post,” recalled Paul. “We dragged ourselves clear and phoned the emergency services.”

With a land ambulance unable to get near the injured men, SCAA was scrambled and soon on the scene, landing within a couple of hundred metres of the accident. “I remember feeling huge relief when SCAA arrived,” said Paul. “I was in a great deal of pain and the crew was just amazing – so efficient and reassuring – and I immediately relaxed knowing I was in expert hands.

“I know now that if ever you’re in trouble and pain far from anywhere, it’s SCAA you would want to help you.”

“SCAA brought relief, reassurance, speed and comfort when I was in a very dark place,” said Paul, “I’ll forever be grateful for their help.”

ALISON:

A couple of weeks later, Alison’s horse sank into soft sand on the banks of Loch Garry, throwing her over the animal’s head.

“My horse panicked because she was up to her belly in this gloopy, silty sand and then she scrambled towards me,” recalled Alison. To protect herself, Alison rolled into a ball as the horse’s hooves thundered off her back.

“The pain was horrendous,” she said. “The whole weight of the horse was crashing into me and I really thought I was going to break.” The horse got free and left Alison in the remote spot.

“I was dizzy and vomiting. I lay down on the grass at one point and passed out. I couldn’t go any further.”

Following a call from Alison’s father, SCAA was soon on the scene. “I’m so glad SCAA was there – reassuring, administering pain relief and putting me at ease. They were wonderful and I remember feeling real relief when I heard them coming and then landing nearby. Their arrival makes you feel everything will be OK.” Alison was treated in hospital for several broken ribs and bruising to her lungs.

“Our family owes a great deal to SCAA,” she said. “Our accidents have made us very aware of the vital role of an air ambulance when dealing with remote and rural emergencies and the need for fundraising to secure SCAA’s future.”

Paul and Alison are now both involved in fundraising efforts for SCAA and actively spread the word about the charity.

“We never thought our family would need SCAA’s service – ever – far less twice within three weeks,” they agreed. “People should never take this amazing charity for granted – you never know when you will need them.”

Fiona's Story

A broken ankle in the snow

Fiona's Story

Fiona's Story
  • Fall on Edinburgh's Braid Hills
  • Isolated in cold weather
  • Unstable ankle fracture
  • Torn ligaments

Fiona's thoughts as she made her way down the Braid Hills at Edinburgh were of the bacon rolls she would collect on her way home from her early Saturday morning dog walk.

Seconds later, she was lying in agony after slipping on the show-covered icy slopes and snapping her ankle.

"I was screaming for help - and in pain - and my Golden Retriever Oscar was barking but no one heard us," recalled Fiona.

"I could see a man further up the hill but couldn't catch his attention. I kept screaming 'help, help, help' and getting more and more upset."

Fiona then called her husband Richard for help and her screams eventually attracted three runners on the hill who rushed to her aid as she lay on the frozen ground.

"It was January 2nd and I has wearing heavy warm clothing but the cold was starting to get to me," she said. "One of the runners was a GP and she stayed with me while the others went to get blankets and meet the ambulance at the foot of the hill. Richard and my son Lewis then arrived with more blankets and everyone tried to keep me warm.

"I remember being in excruciating pain - it was agony."

The inaccessibility of the accident scene prompted a call to Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance who scrambled their Perth-based Helimed 76 to Fiona's aid.

"The roads were icy and the hill was difficult to access for the road ambulance but SCAA was able to land right next to me."

SCAA paramedics were able to administer pain relief and heat pads to warm her as they assessed her injuries.

"They were fantastic," said a grateful Fiona. "So professional and so kind. I panicked that I was using up emergency resources during Covid and putting pressure on the system but they were calming and reassuring.

"It was wonderful to finally get relief from the terrible pain and I don't remember much about the flight to Edinburgh Royal. I remember seeing the beautiful blue sky through the window and thinking how wonderful it looked."

Doctors at the hospital confirmed an unstable fracture with a break on the outside of Fiona's ankle and ripped and torn ligaments on the inside. She had to have a metal plate and screws inserted in the joint.

"I'll be forever grateful to SCAA for what they did for me that day," she said. "We've since signed up to the charity's Lottery and I'm happy to support them through my business during SCAA Week.

"I know that my support will help someone else in great need - just as I was. What on earth would have happened to me that day if they hadn't been there? I couldn't move and I couldn't have lain out in the snow and ice much longer.

"SCAA is a vital service - it's a lifeline for everyone in Scotland. Accidents happen and you never think it will be you - but you just never know."

Fiona took this selfie just minutes before her accident.

Kevin's Story

Crushed by his dumper truck at work

Kevin's Story

Kevin's Story
  • Crushed by a two-and-a-half-ton dumper truck
  • Flight to hospital took 18 minutes, it would've been 90 minutes by road
  • Spent nearly two weeks undergoing operations, skin grafts and treatment
  • A badly smashed shin and ankle and several broken ribs

As the two-and-a-half-ton dumper truck slowly toppled over on the slope, driver Kevin McNab tried to jump clear. Landing on soft ground he looked back to see the vehicle crash down on top of him – the roll bar crushing his chest and the body of the vehicle smashing on to his leg.

Despite agonising pain, Kevin managed to wriggle into the soft ground and pull himself free of the dumper.

“I really thought I was going to die under my own dumper truck,” said the 42-year-old landscape gardener from Strathtay. “I then thought about my kids and that gave me the strength to make a superhuman effort to pull myself free. I think adrenaline took over.”

The severity of Kevin’s injuries meant he was only able to drag himself into a sitting position against the still-running vehicle, miles from anywhere on the south shore of Loch Tay.

“I was then able to reach my mobile phone and dial 999,” he explained. “My workmate was breaking rocks at the other side of the property and couldn’t hear my shouts above the engine but luckily I had the phone and the ambulance controller kept me on the line talking and reassuring me that help was on the way.  “My friend eventually realised something was wrong and came to find me and did what he could to make me comfortable. The pain across my chest and in my leg was horrendous and I prayed for help to come quickly.”

That help, in the form of local farmers, First Responders, an ambulance crew and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance all arrived within seconds of each other and paramedics quickly assessed the situation and started pain relief for Kevin.

He was then stretchered to the nearby helicopter and airlifted to Ninewells Hospital where he spent nearly two weeks undergoing operations, skin grafts and treatment for a badly smashed shin and ankle and several broken ribs.

“I was signed off work for four months and spent a lot of time unable to walk or on crutches,” he said, “but I know it could have been a lot worse, the care, professionalism and speed they bring is second-to-none and I’m so glad they were there when things went horribly wrong for me. Scotland’s lucky to have such a dedicated service and, although you never think you will need them, we should all be grateful they’re there”.

“SCAA is an absolutely tremendous service. They got me out of a remote area and into hospital within 18 minutes – the same journey would have taken at least 90 minutes by road”

Graeme's Story

Pinned against concrete

Graeme's Story

Graeme's Story
  • Hit by a falling two-tonne cattle feeder
  • Pinned against concrete
  • Severe bruising and muscle damage to legs and chest
  • Rural farming location in Scottish Borders

 

As the two tonne cattle feeder crashed down towards him, Graeme MacLeod leapt to get clear. His quick reactions avoided more than a severe blow to his head but the weighty feeder struck his chest and legs, pinning him to the concrete floor in the empty cattle court.

Lying in the wet slurry that the farmer was clearing after sending the cattle out to pasture, Graeme managed to wriggle his chest free but his legs were trapped.

"I didn't know what injuries I had suffered," he said. "Adrenaline kicks in initially and you think everything is fine - but I was held fast, alone, cold and wet and the pain was starting to set-in down my whole body."

Graeme, who farms in the Scottish Borders, called his partner to come from her work and shift the offending trough with the forklift.

"She managed to get the weight off me but I wasn't able to move," he said. "I was concerned I had broken my back which was a terrifying feeling."

The trough had fallen around nine feet from the prongs of a forklift truck which Graeme had used to raise the feeder so that he could clean it from underneath.

"I had done it many times before but it just takes one time for things to go wrong and you're in a whole world of trouble," he said.

"When the ambulance arrived they got me cleaned up a bit and into the vehicle while calling on support from Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance.

"I felt a huge sense of relief when I heard the helicopter coming in to land nearby," recalled Graeme. "SCAA paramedics were at my side in seconds and reassuring me. They were comforting, professional and decisive. They're exactly who you want to see when you're frightened and in pain."

Graeme was airlifted smoothly, comfortably and swiftly to the major trauma unit at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, minimising any threat to his injuries.

"Miraculously, I escaped with severe bruising and muscle damage to my legs and chest," explained a relieved Graeme, "and left hospital 10 hours later."

"I watched the accident on the farm CCTV and saw how quickly the incident happened. It's the sort of thing that happens to other people, never you - or so I thought.

If I had broken my neck or back, a one-hour-plus jarring road journey by ambulance to hospital would have been terrible. SCAA flew me in minutes without any more trauma.

It's vital for rural workers that SCAA is available and Scotland is hugely fortunate to have such a charity as part of our emergency response network. I can't thank them enough for all they did for me."

Graeme MacLeod at work with his cows

Baby James's Story

Dog attack on 4-month-old baby

Baby James's Story

Baby James's Story
  • Extensive injuries to head and neck
  • Punctured windpipe and damage to artery
  • Several operations required by the surgical team at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

The quick actions of SCAA's paramedics helped a baby boy return home in time for his first Christmas after he was mauled by one of the family’s dogs.

Morven Davidson turned her back on her two-month-old son for only “a matter of seconds”, but it was enough time for him to suffer potentially fatal injuries. The dog leapt onto James’ pushchair and inflicted unthinkable injuries, damaging his airway, puncturing an artery and nearly removing his ear from his head.

Within the hour, however, Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance had airlifted son James and his mother to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary for treatment at the major trauma centre. And, smiling with his mother at their home, James has since made an incredible recovery from the incident.

Mrs Davidson said: “It was so instantly reassuring having the air ambulance team here to help him.

“They are absolute life-savers. It is as simple as that. Without them, rural communities would be scuppered. It would have been horrendous sitting with James in the back of the ambulance going to Aberdeen.

“He was slipping in and out of consciousness and we don’t know how the extra time needed to get to treatment would have left him. And with part of his ear being severed from his head, doctors might not have been able to save it.”

Mrs Davidson, 27, works as a shepherd in Invermark in Glen Esk, while 28-year-old husband Derek is a gamekeeper on another nearby estate. By road, the journey to ARI would have taken more than an hour. By air, the SCAA team had James there in 15 minutes. The first-time mother said: “While my back was turned, one of the terriers jumped on top of the pram and attacked James.

“His ear was torn and the dog had punctured his airway and damaged an artery. I just felt dread and didn’t know what I was going to find when I looked into the pram. It would only have been the matter of a few seconds but it was almost fatal.”

The family – including husband Derek, 28, – has now enjoyed a first Christmas as home together. And Mrs Davidson promised her son will be a “very spoiled little boy” as numerous get-togethers are planned with doting relatives over the festive period. SCAA lead paramedic John Pritchard who was one of those who attended said: “We hand over the patient to the doctors and sometimes we don’t get to hear what happens thereafter.

“It is great to hear the wee one got home for his first Christmas with his family.”

James spent nine days in hospital, undergoing plastic surgery and other procedures by ear, nose and throat specialist surgeons. Within an hour of arriving at ARI, James was in theatre and his mother said it was only then she could relax, knowing he was in the “best of hands”. Days later, when the chance of infection has dissipated, she breathed a sigh of relief knowing he was out of the woods. It was Patterdale terrier Rascal, one of the families’ 10 dogs, that had turned on the baby boy after a walk around the estate. The dog, nearly five-years-old, has since been put down.

Mrs Davidson said she wanted to use her experience to ensure no other family had to go through similar trauma. She said: “You might trust your animal 100% but it can take only a split second for it all to go horribly wrong. 

“We would never leave our son alone with a dog but we were there and the child was wrapped up in his pram and it still happened. “Rascal had never been aggressive, so it shows even the nicest of dogs can make a mistake.”

Steve's Story

Not just a simple ear infection

Steve's Story

Steve's Story
  • Steve thought he had a simple ear infection
  • Deteriorated rapidly with what proved to be Bacterial Meningitis
  • SCAA was able to fly to Steve’s aid in minutes
  • "I don’t believe I would be here today without SCAA"

Steve thought he had a simple ear infection – albeit an increasingly painful one. But when he passed out through agonising pain and deteriorated rapidly with what proved to be Bacterial Meningitis, it became a race against time to get him to hospital.

And in a remote and rural part of Scotland – with the quickest emergency response being helicopter – Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) was to prove a lifeline for the former commando.

Steve explained. “The morning I passed out, I was scrabbling through the medicine cabinet trying desperately to find something that would give me relief as my head felt ready to explode.”

His wife and a close neighbour and friend tended to the barely conscious Steve and a 999 call brought a locally-based paramedic racing to the scene. Calls to doctor support confirmed suspicions of meningitis, recognising that Steve was failing fast.

Completing a mission several miles away, SCAA was able to fly to Steve’s aid in minutes and paramedics worked rapidly to treat and prepare him for the flight to hospital.

Steve’s wife Lynne followed by car to hospital and admits it was “the longest journey ever.  I was terrified he would be gone when I got there,” she said. “I was so worried I would lose him.”

Four days later Steve regained consciousness in ICU and was horrified to learn of how critically ill he had been. And doctors told him there were no guarantees he would have pulled through if SCAA hadn’t got him to hospital so quickly.

“To wake up to that information was really scary – and really sobering,” said Steve, who runs an outdoor activity company. “I’m reasonably fit – how could this happen to me?  “I thought I just had an ear infection – I could never have guessed it would be a touch-and-go race against the clock. And I don’t believe I would be here today without SCAA. It makes you realise how crucial an air ambulance is for remote areas. They saved me when time was running out and I will spend the rest of my life thanking SCAA.”

Mark's Story

A motorcycle ride gone wrong

Mark's Story

Mark's Story
  • Mark was enjoying a motorcycle ride through Scotland
  • Unaware of the multiple injuries he had suffered
  • "Within minutes we were landing on the rooftop"
  • Broken femur, a shattered kneecap, ruptured hamstrings and a major deep wound at his Achilles

One minute Mark was enjoying a motorcycle ride through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery – the next he was catapulted through the air, bounced along the tarmac and smashed against a crash barrier, sustaining horrific injuries.

As passing motorists on the well-known Rest and Be Thankful roadway rushed to help, Mark could see his beloved motorcycle lying broken and tangled in the crash barrier 30 metres away. Shrapnel-like pieces of the metalwork had flown past him or struck his helmet as he landed.

“I felt I couldn’t breathe,” he recalled. “Pain was starting to creep in to various parts of my body and I was aware my clothes were covered in the fuel running down the hill towards me. I was crushed against a barrier that had stopped my flying over a sheer drop. There was only its metalwork between me and certain death.”

Mark’s motorcycling buddy was busy stopping the traffic and calling the emergency services as others – including mountain rescue personnel who had been nearby – tried to keep the injured rider safe and comfortable.

“I could see blood and couldn’t move my legs,” he said. “I was aware that one of my boots was facing the wrong way which looked bad.”

Mark was unaware of the multiple injuries he had suffered and how serious they were. And with a tailback of traffic stretching for miles in both directions, a road ambulance would have difficulty getting through to him.

SCAA, however, was already in the air and heading Mark’s way.

The helicopter landed on a cleared section of the roadway and expert paramedics were soon tending to Mark’s injuries.

“They were 100% looking after me – what a special team of people,” said Mark. “I was a little hazy with the pain but I remember being anxious about going in a helicopter as I suffer from claustrophobia – even though that seemed the least of my worries!

“SCAA’s crew was great,” he added. “They kept my spirits up, reassuring and calming me and ensuring my pain was at a bearable level at all times.

“Within minutes we were landing on the rooftop helipad at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and facing the start of a long period of treatment and rehabilitation.”

Mark sustained a broken femur, a shattered kneecap, ruptured hamstrings and a major deep wound at his Achilles. He has promised his wife his motorcycling days are over.

“As a motorcyclist I now know first-hand the very vital role SCAA plays in Scotland,” he said. “When you are seriously injured or ill in the middle of nowhere, these guys are your best hope of survival – there’s few others could reach you in time.

“I’ll always be grateful for what SCAA has done for me – they picked up the pieces after a horrendous accident and helped ensure I will enjoy a full recovery eventually. My riding days might be behind me but I’m glad my motorcycling friends have a service like SCAA in the air to look out for them.”