Luke McCartney, a lifelong Thetford resident, is preparing to run the London Marathon on 27th of April in aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA). Having always wanted to take on the challenge, he described the opportunity as both a privilege and an honour.
“I had a personal experience with EAAA when they attended to an incident in the back garden of my property in 2019, that unfortunately ended in tragedy for the patient concerned,” said Luke. “I am always inspired and amazed at the calm professional actions of the EAAA team and their teamwork, having witnessed not only how the crew attended to the patient, but also their empathetic support to others at the scene and myself,” he said.
“This was replicated later at my workplace when a colleague became unwell, but fortunately on this occasion the outcome was successful with the EAAA team and responders saving my colleagues life, who then made a full recovery later returning to work once rehabilitated.” Whilst wanting to achieve a personal life goal, Luke also wanted to thank an amazing charity by raising money to support them to help save more lives across the region. The East Anglian Air Ambulance receives no regular government funding and relies entirely on the support of the community.
In 2024, EAAA provided care to almost 2,000 people. Following a recent visit to their Head Office in Norwich, Luke saw how important these fundraising activities help to keep the critical care team flying. He’s a firm believer in their motto Together We Save Lives.
You can support Luke by donating on his JustGiving page 🔗
AN UPDATE FROM LUKE – CONGRATULATIONS ON COMPLETING THE LONDON MARATHON!
17 weeks ago I started training for a marathon 🏃🏻➡️. For 16 of them weeks I felt nothing but excitement, but on the last week nerves crept in. I wondered if I had what it takes to run 26.2 miles. I didn’t want to let people down. I didn’t want to let myself down.
I am pleased to say on the 27th April 2025 I ran the TCS London Marathon in 4h:21m:53s in aid of East Anglian Air Ambulance 🚁, on what was a very hot day 🥵. Surprisingly with my toe nails intact and my nipples not being sore (wish I could’ve said the same for my legs).
On crossing the finish line and collecting my medal I broke down in tears 😭. I think it was from the physical pain, the mental exhaustion, the elation of achieving a personal goal, the overwhelming feeling of the support I had been given, and that the money raised may save someone’s life.
This was the hardest and most challenging day of my life, but ironically one of the best days of my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported me and donated 💛 If you still wish to donate to raise vital funds for East Anglian Air Ambulance my link is above.
