Seven-year-old Arthur covers the cost of a whole mission with his 10.5 mile walk for the charity that saved his dad’s life

On Sunday 3 May 2024, seven-year-old Arthur walked the distance that London’s Air Ambulance flew when they attended Arthur’s dad Dan in 1997.

“Dan was 16 at the time,” explained Sophie, Arthur’s mum and Dan’s wife. “Dan was hit by a car whilst on his paper round and suffered catastrophic injuries. Thankfully, London’s Air Ambulance was there.

“Our family feels we owe Dan’s life – and everything we’ve all had since – to London’s Air Ambulance Charity. We’re so grateful, even 26 years later.”

In telling their two sons – Arthur and Bertie – the story of Dan’s accident and completing their own fundraising activities over the years, Sophie and Dan inspired their little ones to take on their own adventures.

“Arthur decided he wanted to do something for the charity that had saved his daddy himself,” said Sophie. “So we planned a walk to replicate the journey the helicopter took in 1997.”

Arthur and Sophie set off on a sunny Sunday, waved off by Arthur’s primary school teacher. Walking with a noticeable helicopter balloon with them, mum and son caught the attention of passers-by throughout their walk.

“We raised £250 just from strangers on the street!” said Sophie.

Finishing the walk at The Royal London Hospital, Arthur and Sophie met Dan and Bertie (age six) and visited London’s Air Ambulance’s helipad.

“We were tired,” said Sophie. “But Arthur was thrilled.

“The team were so kind and answered all his questions. It gave him a huge buzz!”

So far Arthur’s walk has raised currently £2,300 not including gift aid – more than a cost of a whole mission. We’re so grateful – and very impressed! – by his brilliant efforts.

“The impact the charity has had on the family has been huge. Bertie has already said he wants to do his own event when he’s seven too!”