Home » Past patient takes on gruelling Snowdonia challenge for Wales Air Ambulance

Past patient takes on gruelling Snowdonia challenge for Wales Air Ambulance

Dundee man injured in Powys crash aims to raise thousands in thank-you fundraiser

A SCOTTISH man who was rescued by the Wales Air Ambulance after a serious motorbike crash is set to return to Wales to take on a demanding 50km mountain race in aid of the lifesaving service.

Kenny Reid, 37, from Dundee, was involved in a serious collision while riding his motorbike in Powys in 2024, leaving him with multiple injuries including a broken wrist, arm and shoulder blade, as well as a severe leg muscle tear.

The Wales Air Ambulance critical care team attended the scene, providing specialist treatment at the roadside before airlifting him to the major trauma unit at Royal Stoke University Hospital.

Speaking about the incident, Kenny said:
“I was lying at the side of the road in Wales with multiple injuries, not really sure what the future was going to look like after being involved in a bad accident caused by another driver.

“Fortunately, the Wales Air Ambulance attended, assessed my injuries and provided specialist treatment before taking me to hospital.”

Following major surgery and a long recovery, Kenny has now set himself the challenge of completing the Ultra-Trail Snowdonia 50k on May 16.

The event, held in Eryri National Park, is a gruelling ultramarathon featuring more than 3,400 metres of elevation gain.

Despite not previously being a regular runner, Kenny completed two half marathons last year before stepping up to a 50km ultramarathon in Scotland.

Reflecting on his recovery, he said:
“I’m incredibly grateful for the help I received. Without the specialist support of the Wales Air Ambulance, things could have been a lot worse.

“Recovery hasn’t been easy, but they have given me the chance to make the best recovery possible.

“My health is now in a good place. I’m still working on strength and mobility with a physio, but my fitness and endurance are better than before the accident.”

Kenny added that while his family think he is “a bit crazy” to take on the challenge, they are proud of his efforts to give something back.

He has set a fundraising target of £2,900 and has already raised more than £2,000 for the charity.

The Wales Air Ambulance delivers advanced, consultant-led emergency care across Wales, bringing hospital-level treatment directly to patients at the scene and transferring them to the most appropriate facility where needed.

Kate Thomas, Regional Fundraising Manager, said:
“It is always inspiring to hear of former patients taking on challenges to support the charity.

“Kenny has worked incredibly hard in his recovery and to already raise over £2,000 is fantastic. We wish him the very best of luck.”

The charity relies on public donations to raise the £13 million needed annually to keep its helicopters flying and rapid response vehicles operational.

Anyone wishing to support Kenny’s fundraiser can donate via his JustGiving page.

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