Richard's Christmas Miracle My name is Richard Jones. You don’t know me but were it not for the generous support of kind people like you, I most likely would not be here today. Whilst travelling for work in my truck I had a road accident resulting in catastrophic injuries. The early and critical care that I received from the Wales Air Ambulance crew undoubtedly saved my life. Make your Christmas donation today My life changed in a split second. The Wales Air Ambulance flew to the scene. Upon arrival, Dr Bob Tipping and Critical Care Practitioner Marc Allen spotted signs of internal bleeding. At the roadside they gave me six units of blood products to help my significant blood loss, and due to the severity of my injuries, particularly my leg, they gave me a general anaesthetic and put me on a ventilator to control my breathing. I was transferred to the nearest specialist centre for limb injuries, I’m told that I was critically ill and very unstable when the decision was taken to amputate part of my right leg. I wouldn’t be here this Christmas. I’ve always heard stories about all the amazing things the Wales Air Ambulance Charity do. However, I never really thought about the service before and never thought I’d end up needing their assistance. If they hadn’t flown to the scene of my accident that day and given me the early critical care that I needed I wouldn’t be here this Christmas. Since my accident I have had to learn a whole new way of living my life, I have learnt to walk with a prosthetic limb, and I am taking more time for myself not rushing about as much as I did before, I have good days and bad days. The whole team at Wales Air Ambulance have inspired and given me so much. I am giving back in my own way – I give peer support to others who have limb amputations, and I recently took part in a fishing competition raising funds for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity; fishing has been one of my lifelong hobbies. My Christmas miracle. For me, my Christmas miracle is my life, and that whilst recovering in hospital I got to know a nurse who has now become Mum to our beautiful baby boy. My feelings towards Christmas have certainly changed since the accident. As much as you try not to, you do find yourself wondering ‘what if’. I don't take anything for granted like I used to. It will be an extra special occasion for me and my family this year, as it's my son's first Christmas. If it weren'tfor Wales Air Ambulance I wouldn't be here today, neither would my son have been born. I look forward to spending time with my family and friends, and enjoying lots of delicious food - especially pigs in blankets. Thank you. I was surprised to find out that, despite the amazing work they do, Wales Air Ambulance Charity is solely funded by you, the people of Wales. They operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, even on Christmas Day. Whilst I'm tucking into my Christmas Dinner and enjoying time with loved ones, I will be thinking of those who have given up their Christmas to save lives. Please consider donating to this lifesaving service and help them save more lives this Christmas. Like me, you never know when you might need them. Thank you. Yours sincerely, Richard Jones Wales Air Ambulance Survivor Make your Christmas donation today Manage Cookie Preferences