As we mark Air Ambulance Week (8 – 15 September), a campaign celebrating the lifesaving work of air ambulance charities across the UK, Durham resident Anne Stephenson is stepping up with an incredible challenge of her own.
She is walking the Southwest Coast Path from Minehead to Land’s End – a distance of 260 miles with a staggering 50,000 ft of ascent, to raise funds for the Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA)
Anne was inspired to support the service after a medical emergency involving her youngest son. She said: “Without DLRAA attending, my son would not be with us today. In a life-and-death situation you hope and pray the cavalry will arrive and indeed they did.”
Determined to give back, Anne set out earlier this year but was forced to pause her walk at the halfway point due to injury, having already completed 126 miles and 24,500 ft of elevation. Now recovered, she has returned to the coastal path with renewed determination to finish the challenge.
“It feels great to be back on the Southwest Coast Path and I never considered not continuing,” Anne said. “Once committed to something I am determined to finish. Being a distance walker teaches you resilience.”
Along the route, Anne has faced narrow cliff-edge paths, steep climbs and unpredictable weather, but also unforgettable experiences. “I was walking on one of the highest cliffs in windy, rainy conditions, sharing the path with three Exmoor ponies who weren’t in a rush, so I just had to follow behind. It was a memorable experience,” she shared.
By the time she reaches Land’s End, Anne will have climbed the equivalent of almost two Everests, all while raising vital funds for the charity that means so much to her.
“Although walking is my passion, this challenge is the hardest I have ever undertaken,” she said. “The Air Ambulance Service receives no government funding and relies on people such as myself to raise awareness and try to put a little back. I am so grateful for everyone’s support.”
The funds raised will go directly towards keeping The Air Ambulance Service flying, providing critical care and emergency support when every second counts. The charity receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations to raise the funds needed for each rescue mission.
For more information visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk.
If you would like to support Anne on her incredible journey and donate, please visit: The Air Ambulance Service – Minehead to Land’s End
