WATCH: Coleraine man Ronnie whose life was saved by Air Ambulance urges public to support fundraising car raffle
A Coleraine man whose life was saved by the Air Ambulance after being injured while out cycling is urging the public to support a fundraising raffle for a brand new car.
Ronnie Hogg’s life changed on January 14, 2021, when he was involved in a road traffic collision while out cycling. Ronnie needed the support of Air Ambulance NI and went on to spend over three months in hospital before making a strong recovery.
He was transported from Coleraine to the Royal Victoria Hospital in just 30 minutes.
Now, Ronnie is lending his voice to the raffle appeal and asking local people to support the service that was there for him when he needed it most.
The raffle was the brainchild of the Osborne family, based in Ballymoney, who have been fundraising for Air Ambulance NI since Simon Osborne needed the service following a road traffic collision in 2019.
It has been organised in partnership with Roadside Garages Ltd in Coleraine and the Simon Osborne Air Ambulance Appeal, with the car fully provided through generous local support so that proceeds from ticket sales can go towards Air Ambulance NI.
Ronnie Hogg said: “I know first-hand how important Air Ambulance NI is. When the worst happened to me, the service was there, and I will always be grateful for the care I received.
"Buying a ticket, or better still a book of 10, is a simple way to give something back and help make sure the team can be there for the next person who needs them.”
Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI, said: “We are so grateful to Ronnie for sharing his story and encouraging others to support this fantastic raffle.
"Air Ambulance NI is needed on average twice every day, and it takes £8,200 per day in fundraising to keep the service operational. Community support makes this lifesaving service possible, and buying a book of tickets is a wonderful way to help save lives, brains and limbs across Northern Ireland.”
The raffle prize is a brand-new Kia Picanto GT-Line, supplied through support from Roadside Garages and local business sponsors. Tickets cost £10 each, with books of 10 available for £100.
The draw will take place on Saturday, October 17 at a Gala Night being organised by the Osborne family in aid of the charity.
Supporters can buy tickets in various ways: online via the Simon Osborne Air Ambulance Appeal facebook page, by calling into Roadside Garages in Coleraine, Tony Osborne Family Butcher shop in Ballymoney, Mathewson Chemist Ballymoney or Air Ambulance NI in Lisburn.
Anyone who would like a book posted out can contact the charity directly on 028 9262 2677.