Student thanks air ambulance who helped seriously hurt mum
Alex Jones took part in the Gloucester 10k as a way to say thank you to the Wales Air Ambulance for rushing to help his mum after she experienced spinal cord compression.
The 10k race was his first ever race, and the Hartpury University student wanted to make it special by raising money for the air ambulance.
He set himself a fundraising target of £350, which he exceeded.
The Equestrian Sports Coaching student said: "It was a real honour to support such an incredible cause.
"This charity is particularly close to my heart.
"Unfortunately, my mum experienced a spinal cord compression, which is a life-changing and frightening experience.
"Thanks to the quick and professional response of the Welsh Air Ambulance, she was able to receive the urgent care she needed.
"Their intervention gave her a much better chance at living a more able-bodied life, and for that, I'll always be grateful."
Mr Jones completed the Gloucester 10k in 59 minutes, and he was supported by his friends and family at the event.
He said: "The 10k run went really well.
"It was such a meaningful and emotional day, made even more special by the presence of my friends and family cheering me on.
"This was my first time running a race.
"I've never enjoyed running before, but when I had a goal to work towards it made it much more than just running.
"I definitely put a bit of pressure on myself because I was fundraising for a charity, but crossing that finish line made all the effort feel truly worthwhile.
"Being able to give back through this fundraiser has been an incredibly meaningful experience."
He said he was 'absolutely thrilled' to have raised the money for the charity, which relies on donations from the public.
Mike May, regional fundraising manager for west Wales, said: "A huge congratulations to Alex for completing the Gloucester 10k in aid of our all-Wales Charity.
"Alex has said that he isn't a runner but showed his true determination and commitment to the cause by completing the 10k.
"He should be proud of himself.
"Alex knows first-hand how important our service is to the people of Wales.
"Thank you so much for supporting our Charity, we really appreciate it."
The Wales Air Ambulance needs to raise £11.2 million every year to keep its helicopters in the air and its rapid response vehicles on the road.
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