Daniel Heginbotham

My Gravity-Defying Fundraising Adventure for the London Air Ambulance Charity

Hello, brave and generous readers!

Yes, you read that title correctly. This September, I’ll be donning a helmet, harness, and an entirely new perspective on life as I take on an abseil challenge. All in the name of raising money for the fantastic London Air Ambulance charity. If you know me well, you’re probably laughing or gasping in horror right now because, let’s be honest, my relationship with heights is more dysfunctional than a soap opera love triangle.

Why the London Air Ambulance?

First things first, let’s talk about why I’m doing this. As a nurse for the London Ambulance Service, I see firsthand the incredible, lifesaving work the London Air Ambulance does. When every second counts, these heroes in red fly into action, providing critical care at the scene of major incidents. They’re the Avengers of the skies, minus the spandex, and their work is nothing short of miraculous.

Facing My Fears... from a Great Height

Now, onto the juicy bit. Those who know me are aware that I consider climbing a stepladder a brave act of defiance against gravity. So, why on earth would I sign up to dangle from a rope off a very tall building? Simple: for the adrenaline rush... of raising money for a great cause! (Did you think I was going to say the thrill of abseiling? Please, I’m not that convincing.)

I’ve had nightmares about this. I mean, there are easier ways to raise money. A bake sale, perhaps? But no, I decided to tackle my acrophobia head-on. Because nothing says dedication like facing one’s fears with wobbly knees and a prayer.

Surprise, Husband!

In a moment of sheer brilliance (or madness), I also signed up my partner Andrew Rhodes for this abseil – without telling him first. Now, Andrew is a great sport and, thankfully, he’s up for the challenge (after a bit of convincing and possibly some bribery). He’s not as scared of heights as I am, but it still means double the fun and double the fundraising! We’re in this together, for better or worse, till gravity do us part. You can support his abseil adventure here: 

https://fundraising.londonsairambulance.org.uk/fundraisers/AndrewRhodes/abseil-2024 

The Big Day: Wednesday 4th of September 2024

Mark your calendars for the 4th of September! Imagine me, clinging to the edge of a building, trying to remember the breathing exercises I've taught patients, while simultaneously questioning all my life choices.

My plan? To inch down that building with the grace of a newborn giraffe learning to walk. But, I promise, every awkward step and every shriek (oh, there will be shrieks) is all for the London Air Ambulance charity.

How You Can Help

I need your support! Not just emotional support – though messages of encouragement (or memes to laugh at) are welcome – but financial support. Every pound you donate will go towards keeping the London Air Ambulance flying high and saving lives. Plus, you get the added bonus of seeing me conquer my fear in the most public, and likely humorous, way possible.

Donate Here: https://fundraising.londonsairambulance.org.uk/fundraisers/danielheginbotham

Support Andrew Here: https://fundraising.londonsairambulance.org.uk/fundraisers/AndrewRhodes/abseil-2024

So please, dig deep and give generously. Because if I’m brave enough to face my biggest fear, you can definitely spare a few pounds for this amazing cause. Don't worry if you cannot spare some change though. You can support us by sharing our donation link and by yelling abuse as we descend from a great hight on a thin piece of rope. And who knows? Maybe by the end of this, we’ll be calling ourselves Batman and Robin.

Thank you for your support, and wish us luck – we’re going to need it!

With a shaky hand and a hopeful heart,

Daniel

I'm Abseiling to help save lives in London

London’s Air Ambulance is the charity that delivers an advanced trauma team to London’s most seriously injured patients. Your donation will help save more lives by keeping the helicopter in the air and the rapid response cars on the road, ready for when they are needed most. By providing intervention as quickly as possible after injury, London’s Air Ambulance Charity aims to give patients the best chance of survival, and best quality of life, after trauma.

I will be abseiling from the home of London's Air Ambulance Charity one the 17th Floor of The Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel. Please give what you can to help save lives in London.