Friday Headlines
the weekly newsletter from EHS
Student Raises Money for MAAC
18 February 2022
In December, Year 12 student Shayma joined her father and a group of volunteers in raising donations for The Midlands Air Ambulance Charity (MAAC). Shayma shares her thoughts and experiences below.
“The MAAC operates and funds three air ambulances covering six countries in the Midlands region including Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands. Each year it costs in excess of £10 million to maintain the three aircraft and the provision of the lifesaving service. Each air ambulance mission costs an average of £2,950. Each critical care car or cardiac car mission costs £288 on average.
“I have always felt compelled to help others, which is why I choose to volunteer in events like this one. MAAC helps many people across the country however lacks funding from the government and therefore depends heavily on the generosity of others, such as people willing to volunteer or other businesses that can contribute in some way.
“I was delighted to be able to raise over £500 for the Midlands Air Ambulance through the latest event hosted by the local Shrewsbury team. Being involved in new experiences such as this one has opened my eyes to the wider world and has taught me a lot; when I come across those less fortunate than myself I certainly feel gratitude for my own situation.
“I hope to carry on doing these events for as long as I can do them, as I missed out on participating over the last two years due to restrictions around the pandemic. They’re a unique experience and I hope to encourage others to also give back by taking part in volunteering and charity events.”
