Advertisement
Let's Talk

Athlone Air Ambulance celebrate 10th Anniversary

Jun 17, 2022 10:12 By Shannonside News
Athlone Air Ambulance celebrate 10th Anniversary
Share this article

More than 3,500 people have been transferred to hospitals around the country by the Air Ambulance Service based at Custume Barracks in Athlone.

The joint project between the HSE and the Defence Forces officially began ten years ago today.

Air Corps flight crews work alongside the National Ambulance Service to move critically ill patients in a dedicated military helicopter to the most appropriate hospital for their particular needs.

Advertisement

Defence Forces Captain Jason McDermott says, with advanced paramedics on board it has become a vital asset in terms of critical pre-hospital care.

An East Galway man believes he wouldn't be alive today if it wasn't for the assistance of the Athlone Air Ambulance.

Johnny Lyons was airlifted from his home in Killimor having sustained serious injuries in a bull attack in November 2019.

Advertisement

Speaking at a special event to mark the 10th anniversary of the Emergency Aeromedical Service in Baldonnel yesterday, the local farmer thanked the paramedics and defence forces for saving his life.

It took just nine minutes for Johnny to be taken by the Air Corps to University Hospital Galway, a journey which takes over 45 minutes by road.

Tommy Stenson attended a special event at Baldonnell Aerodrome in Dublin to mark the service's 10th Birthday.

Advertisement

He spoke to the Killimor native believes he mightn't have survived the attack if it wasn't for the rapid response of the helicopter.

Share this article
Advertisement
Advertisement

Shannonside Newsletter

Sign up now to keep up to date with the latest news.

Processing your request...

You are subscribed now! please check your email to confirm your subscription.

Copyright © 2024 Shannonside FM. Developed by Square1 and Powered by PublisherPlus