A young boy from Leicester is continuing his recovery after being hit by a car outside his home earlier this year, thanks to the quick response and expert care of The Air Ambulance Service (TAAS).
On 12 February 2025, nine-year-old Charlie Dexter was walking home from school when he was struck by a car while crossing the road outside his house. His dad Paul and Nana rushed outside after hearing a loud bang, only to find Charlie lying in the road.
An ambulance arrived within minutes, and due to the seriousness of his injuries, the Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) was dispatched. The crew landed in a nearby park, where Dr Jake Turner and Critical Care Paramedic Sam Cooper made the urgent decision to sedate Charlie to protect his brain and prevent further damage.
Charlie’s mum, Emma, said: “Without Dr Turner and Sam Cooper, I don’t think Charlie would be here. I honestly believe they saved Charlie’s life with how quickly they acted.”
Charlie was taken to Queen’s Medical Centre with severe brain injuries, including multiple brain bleeds, swelling, and a fractured skull. He spent two weeks in an induced coma and later developed sepsis before beginning a long road to recovery, relearning how to walk, talk, and eat.
Today, Charlie is back home with his parents, little brother George, and twin sisters Paige and Peyton. Though he is still recovering, his family are relieved and grateful to have him home.
Emma added: “I knew he’d be safe – they knew exactly what to do. I’ll always be thankful to The Air Ambulance team for the speed and skill that gave Charlie the care he needed when it mattered most.”
Charlie’s family and his school have since organised fundraising events to give back to the lifesaving charity.
The Air Ambulance Service receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations to remain operational. Fundraisers and supporters help keep the helicopters flying and critical care cars on the road, meaning patients like Charlie can receive urgent care when they need it most.
For more information on the charity, visit: www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk or call 0300 3045 999.
