A youngster who was seriously injured on the way home from a Boxing Day Dip has raised money for the charity that came to his aid.
Nine-year-old Max Doddy was returning from the Redcar event when he was caught up in a four-car smash, suffering extensive injuries.
The accident happened on the A174 near Kirkleatham roundabout in December 2012. Max was airlifted to Middlesbrough’s James Cook University Hospital and treated in intensive care for a badly broken leg, collar bone and ribs.
His sister Halle, brother Joe and father Andrew, were also injured in the smash.
Helped by his family, the brave youngster, of Briargate, Eston, has raised nearly £5,000 for GNAAS.
Speaking to the Evening Gazette, his mum Deborah said: “It’s a massive relief for Andrew and I to have him home and well. All the nurses took a real shine to him in hospital. He’s a real little charmer.”
Max’s twin sister Halle was flown to hospital separately by Cleveland Police helicopter where she was treated for a head injury.
Driver dad Andrew, a materials controller, had chest and arm injuries but was later discharged from hospital.
Deborah said it was one of the worst moments of her life.
“That morning I thought I’d lost them,” she said. “It was a massive shock.”
She praised hospital staff, air ambulance crews, emergency services and everyone who helped.
Jane Peacock, GNAAS paramedic, said: “It is great to hear from patients after we have treated them. I am so happy to hear Max has made a full recovery, it’s stories like this that really show how important the air ambulance is.”
Speaking about Jane, Andrew Doddy, said: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart, I am forever in her debt.”
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