There for you this Christmas
The lights may be twinkling on the tree, the festive cards displayed around the room and carols playing cheerily in the background - but it’s just another day for SCAA’s crews at Christmas.
“People might think things would be quieter for us on Christmas Day,” said paramedic John, “but that’s not always the case.
“Heart attacks and strokes are no respecters of the festivities and accidents still happen with people out on their Christmas Day walk, travelling to friends and family or trying out the new bike.
“Anyone with loved ones in the emergency services knows that their family Christmas might be a little different,” said John, “but we always try to make it a bit special if we’re on duty at SCAA.”
As with families everywhere, the SCAA “family” Christmas revolves round the day’s main meal. But things don’t always go to plan.
“Once routine and essential duties are completed, we all muck in to produce a terrific meal - or sometimes a family member will come to the base and cook for us - but it all counts for nothing if a call comes in.”
John recalls cold turkey one Christmas after a busy shift and giving up on the cooking altogether another year in favour of a meal from the local Chinese carryout after a heavy workload!
Pilot Gavin loves working Christmas Day and has notched up around seven December 25 shifts with air ambulances in Scotland.
“It was more tricky when the kids were small,” he said, “but it’s all part of the job and you take your turn.
“Although we’re dealing with some pretty serious incidents, everyone still wishes you well - from dispatchers to refuellers and A&E staff at the hospital.
“It’s always a privilege to be able to fly help to those most in need and it’s particularly poignant on Christmas Day. I’m just glad to be able to play my part.
“It’s also pretty special to see the world from the sky. It’s absolutely beautiful flying back after dark and seeing all the Christmas lights from the air - it’s a sight to enjoy.”
While the crew remain poised to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice, Christmas at SCAA is not without its fun. Spirits are raised reading festive wishes from patients and supporters, tummies are full from Christmas goodies handed in by well-wishers and a duo of “naughty elves” is always up to mischief somewhere on the base.
“Spirits are usually high,” said paramedic Julia. “It’s a bit like having a second family and you want to make the day special with them.
“You can make your special day at home suit your shift,” she added. “We once woke our little boy up at 5am to say ‘Santa’s been’ and helped him open his presents before putting him back to bed and heading for work. You don’t have to miss the magic of these special times.
“If we have to have our family Christmas a day early or a day late - that’s fine. As soon as you know you’re working on Christmas Day you can start making plans.”
If time allows, SCAA’s Christmas Day crews might get the chance to catch a movie on TV, play a game or open their Secret Santa gifts.
“You’re always ready to shift into action when the emergency comes in, however,” said Julia.
“The need for SCAA never goes away - even on Christmas Day.”
