Devon Air Ambulance brings warmth to patients with seasonal Comfort at Christmas appeal
As the festive season approaches, Devon Air Ambulance is calling on the community to support its Comfort at Christmas appeal, to help bring warmth, dignity and compassion to patients facing time-critical emergencies this winter.
Mark Hawley, Operations Manager and Pre-hospital Paramedic at Devon Air Ambulance, shares why comfort is an important part of the critical care that the crew brings to the scene of an incident:
‘When we arrive at the scene of an emergency, our priority is always to deliver critical care. But we also do everything we can to ease suffering. A little comfort can make a big difference.’
The charity, which receives no direct government funding, relies entirely on the generosity of supporters to continue its lifesaving work. This winter, donations will help fund essential items that provide warmth and comfort to patients during the coldest months, including:
- Heated blankets that automatically warm up during transport
- Blizzard blankets to fully wrap around patients
- Scoop stretchers to lift patients off freezing ground
- Weather shelters to shield patients from harsh conditions
- Warming fluid for blood products to ensure IVs are gentle and comfortable
These items are essential for delivering compassionate care. The appeal is inspired by stories like Zoe’s, a patient who was seriously injured in a road traffic collision. Before emergency teams could arrive at the scene, a bystander had brought a duvet out to Zoe, a gesture of care that made a lasting impact on her in her moment of need. Mark says:
‘Whether you choose to sponsor a single item or a full Comfort Kit, your gift will help us wrap patients in warmth and compassion. Every contribution helps us to deliver comfort when it’s needed most.’
How to help
Supporters can donate online or sponsor specific items from the Comfort Shopping List, with prices starting from just £4.35 for a disposable fleece blanket. This Christmas, Devon Air Ambulance invites everyone to be part of the care that saves lives and brings comfort in the darkest hours.
To donate or learn more, visit: www.daat.org/offer-comfort
