Face Your Fears – Take on Limavady abseil with Air Ambulance NI and help save lives

As summer brings more people outdoors—on the roads, enjoying sports, tackling DIY projects, or working on farms—the need for Air Ambulance Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) is likely to rise.

On average, two individuals each day in Northern Ireland require this critical service following traumatic incidents.  The team, which includes a Doctor and HEMS Paramedic, performs advanced medical interventions, including out-of-hospital surgical skills, blood transfusions, and advanced pain relief in time-critical, life-threatening situations at scene. To keep the aircraft flying and the medical team ready, the charity must raise over £8,000 daily to ensure the Doctor and HEMS paramedic are there when people need them. 

To help raise funds locally, the charity has organised the Roe Valley Abseil to take place on Saturday, September 20.

Participants will get the chance to take to new heights with an 80ft abseil down the spectacular O’Cahan’s Rock in Roe Valley Country Park in Limavady.

Thrill seekers will descend the rock face surrounded by scenic woodland and spectacular riverside views making this a fantastic opportunity to challenge any fear of heights, enjoy the beautiful surroundings and tick off an abseil from your bucket list, whilst also raising much needed funds for the vital life-saving service. 

Register for the challenge for just £40, with fundraising a minimum of £100. All participants aged 12 and above are welcome to take part in this fantastic event.

Other fundraisers taking place include the Dragon Boat Race in Belfast on Thursday, September 4 and Friday, September 5 and an abseil down the Europa Hotel, Belfast on Saturday, October 12.

Calling for support, Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising, said: “We’re inviting thrill-seekers and community champions to take on a challenge that truly makes a difference. Whether it’s abseiling at the stunning Roe Valley Park in Limavady or the iconic Europa Hotel in Belfast or coming together as a team for our Dragon Boat race on the River Lagan—your participation helps save lives, brains, and limbs.  Test fears of heights or your rowing skills and know that your choice of personal challenge will have meaning.  The sponsorship you raise will help the aircraft lift off when it responds to serious trauma incidents across Northern Ireland delivering critical care where and when it’s needed most.  The team are tasked from our airbase here just outside of Lisburn on average twice per day to towns and villages across NI and the Air Ambulance charity requires £3 million every year in fundraising to sustain this service. By taking part in these events, you’re not just having fun — you’re helping to save lives. These events are perfect for team building, community spirit, and personal achievement – and they’re open to everyone! No experience necessary – just bring your courage, enthusiasm, and a big heart.”