The lifesaving service is marking the beginning of Air Ambulance Week
People whose lives have been impacted by Scotland’s air ambulance are being asked to share their stories to raise awareness of the service.
The call comes at the beginning of Air Ambulance Week, which highlights the heroism of crews working for the UK’s 39 helicopter air ambulances.
Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) has been providing vital emergency pre-hospital care since 2013 from its bases in Perth and Aberdeen.
The charity is now reaching out to the patients whose lives it has saved or improved and the many families whose lives have been impacted by the work of its dedicated crews.
David Craig, SCAA chief executive, said: "Each and every patient is special to SCAA and their welfare is important to us. Many thank us and give something back once the healing process is under way and one of the most valuable things they can do for us is share their story.
"No one tells of the work we do as powerfully and emotively as our patients. Their often harrowing yet uplifting personal experiences are a testament to the daily life-saving efforts, professionalism and commitment of our crews as they battle to overcome distance, time constraints, challenging weather, difficult terrain and life-threatening injury and illness.
"These stories are what inspire the people of Scotland to get behind SCAA and fund our flights - their donations are vital to keeping our service in the air and patient stories are key in highlighting why there is that need."
The theme of this year's Air Ambulance Week is "because every second counts ...", highlighting the critical impact that the speed of an air ambulance can have on a patient's chances of survival.
During August alone, that speed was in evidence as SCAA responded to 65 emergencies throughout the whole of Scotland, including some of the country's most remote and rural communities. In the past year, the service has flown to more serious incidents than ever before and flown more hours to reach those most in need.
Craig said: "SCAA relies entirely on public donations to support our service and that amazing generosity sustains our £4 million annual costs.
"But in addition to those who so willingly and generously donate to our cause, our patients - both young and old - can play a vital role in spreading the word regarding how important our service is to Scotland. Our crews always like to know how patients are doing and would love to hear from them."
Anyone helped by SCAA in the past who would be willing to consider sharing their story can, as a first step and with no obligation, contact media@scaa.org.uk or telephone SCAA on 07778 779 888.
