18 Sep 2026
With a unique idea, Caitlin and Simran – two students studying to be paramedics at the University of Hertfordshire – recently taught and performed CPR for 24 hours to raise funds for London’s Air Ambulance Charity.
Participants committed to two-minute slots during the 24-hour period, learning vital first aid while fundraising for our charity. With the option to practice beforehand, 50 people took part, including fellow students, lecturers and other university departments.
“It was so much fun,” said Caitlin, “people were really excited to take part and everyone picked it up really quickly.”
Having first learnt CPR herself when she was 12, Caitlin has always wanted to help people. “Being in the ambulance world we’re aware how important CPR is but we also realised how many people don’t know it!
“We’ve both worked with HEMS teams during our placements and so we know what you do is time critical and life-saving.
“Your team can do things that we can’t – like on-scene blood transfusions, which can be the difference between life and death in some situations. We felt it was really important the charity received some extra funds.”
Caitlin and Simran picked up all the leftover slots during the 24 hours, leaving their arms incredibly sore and hands significantly swollen the next day! “But it was worth it,” said Caitlin. “It was such a great event we want to do it again next year.
“People also loved learning more about you, it was brilliant to share more information and raise awareness of the charity.”
We love seeing these creative fundraising efforts – and it was fantastic to see the teaching of CPR too – we’re so thankful to Caitlin and Simran. Their event raised over £800: if they’ve inspired you to get creative with your own fundraising, please reach out to our team, we’re here to support you.