For charities like the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), gifts in Wills help provide life-saving care across the North and the Isle of Man. Whatever the size of the gift, every legacy helps ensure the charity’s specialist critical care teams can continue to be there for people in their darkest moments.

 Peter Richardson, from Redcar, has supported GNAAS for more than 14 years and has chosen to leave a gift to the charity in his Will.

 “When you think about the vast area GNAAS serves, it’s incredible how many people rely on it. For some, it truly is the difference between life and death. Leaving a gift in my Will felt like a meaningful way to support that work long into the future.”

 He shares how several life-changing experiences have shaped his decision.

 “In January 1995, I was the victim of a violent attack at my home. Someone forced their way in and assaulted me while I was alone. I suffered a broken arm, a broken nose and needed 30 stitches to my head. The police and ambulance service attended, and I was off work for five months while I recovered.

 “It was a life-changing experience. Until then, like many people, I’d never really thought about how quickly life can change. It brought everything into perspective and made me realise that I’m not immortal. You never know when you or someone you love might need urgent, critical care support.

 “After returning to work, I developed high blood pressure and decided that life was too short. My wife, Pam, and I chose to retire and make the most of our time together. Experiences like these have made me appreciate just how important emergency services are and why charities like GNAAS deserve support.”

 Both Peter and Pam faced significant health challenges over the years, which reinforced the importance of planning for the future and supporting causes close to their hearts. Peter has been living with prostate cancer since 2012, and, sadly, Pam died from stage 4 lung cancer in 2021.

 Reflecting on these experiences, Peter decided to leave gifts to five charities in his Will, including GNAAS.

 He said: “I know GNAAS provides a vital service across our region. When someone is seriously injured or critically ill, the speed at which specialist care teams can reach them can literally mean the difference between survival and tragedy.

 “Leaving a gift in my Will felt like a meaningful way to give something back and help ensure that this life-saving service can continue to be there for future generations. It’s comforting to know that my support will help the charity continue its vital work long into the future.”

 Peter hopes his story will encourage others to consider leaving a gift in their Will too.

 “I would tell anyone considering leaving a gift in their Will to GNAAS to go ahead and do it. I can’t think of anything more worthwhile. Your gift could help save somebody’s life one day. You may never meet that person, and you might not even know who they are, but knowing you’ve helped give them a second chance is an incredible legacy to leave behind.”

 Interested in learning more about Wills?

 Writing your Will can not only give you peace of mind that your loved ones will be looked after, but it can also minimise taxes and expenses.

 The Great North Air Ambulance Service proudly works in partnership with Farewill to provide a free Will-writing service. Through this service, you will receive support from experts from the comfort of your home.

 Click here to learn more about Farewill’s services.