FAMILY members of a boy who died while riding his motocross bike have personally thanked the paramedic who was first at the scene of the tragedy.
Parents Michael and Mandy Sadler, brother Daniel and aunt Kim Bennett met Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) paramedic Andy Mawson, who rushed to the aid of 15-year-old Michael Sadler when he collapsed while riding his motocross bike in South Gare, Redcar, last June.
Michael’s father desperately tried to resuscitate him before emergency services located the pair. It was later found that he had suffered a brain haemorrhage.
The family paid tribute to their “caring and loveable boy” and handed over more than £1,500 in his memory at the charity’s airbase at Durham Tees Valley Airport this week.
TRAGIC: Pilot Jon Everitt, Michael Sadler, Mandy Sadler, Daniel Sadler, Kim Bennett, paramedic Andy Mawson, doctor Dion Arbid
Mr Sadler, from Yarm, said: “We wanted to create a lasting legacy in Michael’s name. Michael was taken from us far too soon but he died doing what he loved.
“He was a cherished son and a much loved big brother and is deeply missed by all his family and friends.”
The latest donation was raised by Ms Bennett, from Pittington, East Durham, who received sponsorship for tackling the Great North Run in September.
She said: “Charities like these often go unnoticed and GNAAS rely totally on fundraising in order to keep their helicopters in the sky. They were there to help at a time of great need and we wanted to thank them for that.”
The family previously set up a JustGiving page after the accident which raised more than £2,800 for GNAAS and Mr Sadler’s workplace at SRC Bede Sixth Form in Stockton, supported the charity in a 24-hour sports challenge.
Mr Mawson said: “I am in complete admiration of what Michael’s father did that day. It is difficult to imagine what he went through. There was not a dry eye in sight. Thanks to them for their ongoing support to the charity, because without such funds, we wouldn’t be able to continue to do what we do.”
Speaking of meeting the GNAAS crew, Mrs Sadler said: “It has been emotional. We couldn’t do without them.”
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