6 May 2022
Inspired by her personal experience of the life-saving work of London’s Air Ambulance, Sara Smith raised nearly £2,000 with 100 days of sobriety.
On 12 May 2012, Sara’s best friend’s brother, Sam, was involved in a serious road traffic accident. London’s Air Ambulance’s advanced trauma team was dispatched to the scene, arriving within minutes and airlifted him to Whitechapel Hospital. Because of the rapid response care the crew administered to Sam at the roadside, he survived.
Sam was left severely brain damaged and now communicates via a computer. “Life for Sam is different now,” said Sara. “But he is still his cheeky, mischievous self with a crazy amount of love surrounding him.
“He is only with us today because of the amazing work and dedication of the London Air Ambulance Charity and the NHS.”
Recently, Sam typed ‘the air ambulance saved my life’. “That’s what motivated me to fundraise,” explained Sara.
Therefore, on 1 January 2022, Sara began 100 days of sobriety. “I had never done any fundraising before, especially not giving up alcohol!
“I knew it would be a great challenge, and all my friends were surprised as they know how much I love a glass of champagne!”
With January being a dry month for many, Sara found the first month of her challenge manageable. “When it got to February and March, it was a little more difficult, as friends would go out and drink.” But with Sam at the forefront of her mind, and the work of London’s Air Ambulance, Sara continued without faltering and completed her 100-day challenge.
“The support was great, and I had more energy, more clarity and motivation for the gym. I got a lot of personal positives from the experience.”
To celebrate her achievement, Sara held a party after the 100 days – which Sam attended – and enjoyed a well-deserved glass or two of champagne.
We’re so thankful to Sara for her fundraising efforts. If you’re interested in organising your own fundraising challenge, please reach out to us on [email protected].
“I didn't realise at the time that this angel-like organisation relies on charitable donations and fundraising,” Sara concluded. “I’m so glad I did it.”