It’s about reflecting on the causes closest to your heart and choosing to help them far into the future – ensuring critical care services, such as the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), can continue to be there for others when they need them most.  

A legacy gift doesn’t need to be large to matter; whatever its size, it can help sustain life-saving care and give future generations the best possible chance of survival when every second counts. 

A passionate supporter from Gosforth, who wishes to remain anonymous, has pledged a gift in her Will to GNAAS. 

“I’ve always believed that when someone needs urgent help, it should arrive quickly – no matter where they are,” she says. “That’s exactly what the charity provides, and it’s why I want to help ensure this life-saving service can continue for years to come.” 

Her commitment to the charity isn’t new – she has supported the charity for over 15 years. “It wasn’t a single moment that drew me in,” she explains, “but a series of experiences that showed me just how vital this service is to our community.” 

Before GNAAS existed, rescue operations in the region were handled by the RAF squadron at Boulmer in Northumberland. She remembers seeing GNAAS on the news in the early days of the charity. “At the time, I didn’t realise it was a charity, or how much the community would come to rely on it,” she said. 

The importance of public support became clear when she learned GNAAS receives very limited government funding. “My husband, who loves aviation, pointed out helicopters typically last 20,000 to 30,000 flying hours,” she says. “Keeping even one aircraft operational is expensive. That’s when it really hit home: this incredible service survives because of donations from people like us.” 

She describes our charity as essential now more than ever. “All emergency services face significant challenges, making the support for life-saving organisations such as GNAAS more important than ever. The charity is almost exclusively funded by public generosity, yet it delivers essential critical care. With a crew of doctors, paramedics, and advanced medical equipment, they significantly enhance survival rates, particularly in remote rural locations and congested urban areas.” 

And while she hasn’t yet won the lottery, it’s a hope she keeps with a smile. “If we ever strike it lucky, a portion of any big win would go straight to GNAAS. Until then, I’m proud to leave a legacy gift in my Will to ensure this vital service continues for years to come.” 

“It’s my way of saying thank you – and of helping others get the urgent care they need when every second counts,” she concludes.