Mark’s Story

In 2023 Cornwall Air Ambulance was tasked to help 28 patients who had suffered a stroke. One of those incidents was to help dad Mark Beaumont.

Mark was involved in a head-on collision with another car last September, whilst driving his son back to university. He didn’t think he had suffered any serious injuries at the time, but the next morning woke up with a droopy face, had lost mobility in his right arm, was disorientated and was struggling with his speech.

After Mark’s wife Tess called NHS 111 and road paramedics carried out initial assessments, Cornwall Air Ambulance was tasked to the scene near Tintagel.

Critical Care Paramedic Mick McLachlan and Doctor Dave Connor assessed Mark’s condition and quickly decided that he needed to be taken to the South West’s major trauma centre for further treatment, and so conveyed him to Derriford Hospital.

Tess said: “He was very confused, discombobulated and was slurring his words. As they took off, I just had this thought that I was never going to see him again.”

Mark and Tess with pilot Andy (left) and critical care paramedic Mick (right)

Mark spent two weeks on the stroke ward at Derriford where he underwent numerous tests. Doctors believe the haemorrhagic stroke was a result of a small amount of bleeding around the brain, caused during the impact of the crash. He is still recovering, and medical investigations are ongoing.

Tess said: “The crew were fantastic, giving me reassurance and him reassurance, and they were very professional. They handled the whole situation with such kindness and compassion. I think if he hadn’t of had the immediate care, things could have been very different. It was a really dark time for us, and I don’t want to think about what might have happened if they hadn’t of been there.”

Mark added: “I felt reassured when the helicopter was coming but knew that meant it was serious. We live in Cornwall, and we see them out and about all the time, you never think that they’ll come to you or that you’ll need them.

“Cornwall Air Ambulance made an incredible difference; I reckon they got me there an hour and a half quicker than if I’d gone by road ambulance. We are so far from any major hospital where we are. It’s a lifesaving service, it’s just vital. I felt like I was in safe hands, and I am amazingly grateful.”

The 2024 Alternative Triathlon at Siblyback Lake, Liskeard

In April, Tess took on the Cornwall Air Ambulance Alternative Triathlon at Siblyback Lake. She beat her time by eight minutes compared to the previous year, and raised £700 for your charity.

She said: “I did it last year, but I didn’t realise at the time how much of a crucial part Cornwall Air Ambulance would play in our lives.

“I was so grateful that Mark was there supporting me, because there was a stage when we thought that wouldn’t be the case and I just felt so honoured to be doing something for the charity after they had given us so much support.”