Michelle Raine, an eternally grateful former patient of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, has joined its ranks to help keep the charity's crucial work going.
Her remarkable journey from an ex-patient to an integral part of the YAA team, is a testament to the impact the charity has had on her life.
Joining the fundraising team in June 2023, Michelle brought a deep personal connection to YAA's mission, stemming from her own harrowing accident, which was also broadcast on an episode of Helicopter ER.
On August 8, 2017, Michelle was involved in a serious tractor accident near Masham.
The tractor she was on rolled down a hill leaving Michelle, who was a passenger at the time, with devastating injuries including a broken pelvis and serious spinal injuries.
Fortunately, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance crew arrived quickly providing her with critical emergency medical care and pain relief and airlifted her to Leeds General Infirmary for further treatment.
Michelle's road to recovery was filled with challenges as she was rushed into emergency surgery to stabilise her pelvis, a critical step in her healing process. Over the course of her two-week stay in hospital, she also battled pneumonia, which resulted in the collapse of her lungs.
Once discharged from the hospital, Michelle faced two months in a wheelchair whilst her body recovered from the ordeal. Through hard work, perseverance, and the support of her loved ones, Michelle has since made a full recovery.
Driven by a desire to give back, Michelle leapt at the opportunity to work for the very charity that saved her life.
She said: "When I saw the Yorkshire Air Ambulance helicopter landing in the field to save me, I knew I was in safe hands. Their swift response and expert care during my accident were nothing short of miraculous.
"Now, as part of the YAA family, I cherish the opportunity to give back and make a positive impact on the lives of others, just like they did for me.
"Every day is a new adventure, and I am deeply committed to doing everything I can to assist those that support the charity that once saved my life. It's an honour to be part of this fantastic team."
Michelle’s passion for supporting the Yorkshire Air Ambulance has been evident long before she joined the fundraising team. In 2018, just one year after her accident, she organised a successful fundraising ball at Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn.
Raising an impressive £15,000 to give back to the charity, she earned a YAA recognition award in 2019, recognising her exceptional dedication and contribution to the charity.
Regional fundraising manager, Linda Stead, said: "Michelle is an invaluable asset to our fundraising team.
Read more stories here:
- Much loved North Yorkshire fish and chip shop announces shock closure
- 'We thought it was a joke': Customer hits out at pub's cauliflower cheese
- Why the alcohol duty changes leave a bitter taste for many
"Her firsthand experience as an ex-patient allows her to connect with donors and supporters on a deeper level, inspiring them with her remarkable journey and gratitude.
"Michelle's passion shines through every day, and she is a true testament to the life-changing impact of Yorkshire Air Ambulance, we are incredibly proud to have her on board."
For more information about the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and how to support their life-saving work visit www.yaa.org.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here