Former patient’s next fundraising challenge in support of lifesaving charity

Former patient, Michelle Bray, is raising funds to support the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA), who helped to save her life after a serious paragliding incident in 2019.

On Friday 13 September 2019, Michelle enrolled on day 1 of an Elementary Pilot Course (EPC), but a freak incident saw her collide with the ground at speed, causing serious and life-threatening injuries and no memory of what happened.

She sustained 25 fractures including her ribs, hip, pelvis, femur, ankle, her back was broken in three places and her arm was so badly damaged it needed to be completely rebuilt, as well as suffering two bleeds on the brain.

Michelle defied medical expectations, and three years after her incident, took on an incredible challenge of climbing in the Alps getting to 3300mts at Dent du Geante. to raise money for the charity which helped save her life.

Michelle hasn’t stopped there. On Sunday 26 November, Michelle will be holding a talk and yoga class at Stay Well Health, Chellaston Medical Centre in Derby. She is a qualified yoga teacher and will be sharing her inspiring story about how yoga helped her to overcome the biggest challenge of her life after her horrifying incident – with all donations going to support DLRAA and its lifesaving missions.

Within minutes, DLRAA’s critical care crews can be on the ground delivering pre-hospital emergency care and giving patients the very best chance of survival – this vital service relies entirely on donations to raise the £1,700 needed for each rescue mission, as the charity receives no government or National Lottery funding.

“The Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance crew were there for me when I needed them that day, and I said after my incident that I wanted to do something to help them, as without their care my outcome could’ve been very different,” expressed Michelle.

“Places for my event are limited and I hope to show as many people as possible that your mind is your most powerful tool,” she added.

To attend her free event, please visit: Connect With your Inner Power (momence.com)

2023 has been a monumental year for the charity. It’s celebrated 50,000 missions, an overall ‘Outstanding’ CQC score, and 15^th anniversary of providing its lifesaving service across Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland. The charity is continuing to encourage people to visit its charity stores and grab a bargain, donate unwanted clothing to one of many clothing banks, get involved in a challenge event, fundraise, or even sign up to volunteer.

For more information, please visit: www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk or call 0300 3045 999.