Motorcyclist who broke his back in accident praises North West Air Ambulance for incredible recovery

A Preston man whose back was broken just 1mm from his spinal cord in a motorbike accident is showing support for the charity that helped him in his time of need.
Alex Rose, who was in a motorbike accidentAlex Rose, who was in a motorbike accident
Alex Rose, who was in a motorbike accident

Alex Rose, 24, was riding his motorbike between Slaidburn and Devil’s Bridge, Kirkby Lonsdale, when he came to a blind bend and skidded on stones in the road.

Despite going at a careful speed, Alex was thrown into an iron fence in a nearby field, knocking him unconscious.

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The accident left him with three broken back bones, six broken ribs, a fractured sternum, bruised lungs and a painful gash along his arm.

When he awoke, he saw the North West Air Ambulance Charity (NWAAC) helicopter descending.

Now to mark National Air Ambulance Week, which runs from September 7 to 13, Alex wants to thank the charity for their care.

He said: ““On the first group ride of the year with two of my friends, we were heading from Preston to Devil’s Bridge.

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"As we rode down a main A-road we approached a corner with obstructed vision due to a hump in the road.

"As I went over the hump, I braked a little and my back wheel spun round causing the bike to grip the tarmac and fling me off onto the road.

"I blacked out before hitting the ground, as if my body was telling me it was going to hurt so put me to sleep.

"Waking up and seeing the helicopter land was when I realised how serious a state I was in.

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“I think the adrenaline was kicking in though, because I kept trying to get back on my bike.

“Even a slight movement risked even worse injuries and pain, and I’m so grateful the air ambulance was there to calm me down and treat me.”

Two helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) paramedics from NWAAC stabilised Alex at the scene to ensure no further damage was done.

They gave him pain relief before carefully airlifting him to Royal Preston Hospital in 10 minutes for scans and further treatment.

Alex was discharged four days later.

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He added: “Being in such a remote spot, which was difficult to reach by car, I’m sure I wouldn’t have recovered as quickly as I did without their care, they were amazing.

“They knew exactly how to handle me and get me the treatment I needed as quickly as possible.

“I don’t know whether I would be fighting fit today without the charity." 

Following his accident in March last year, Alex asked for donations to the NWAAC in lieu of birthday presents, raising more than £400.

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He added: “I just wanted to do anything to say thank you and give back, and be there for other people who might be in my position one day.

“I’m hoping to do more fundraising going forward.”

Alex is now back playing football and feeling fitter than ever. He hopes one day to get back on his bike.

He added: “I’m now fully recovered, but from time to time I do still get some pain in my chest and back, usually if temperature changes suddenly.

"It doesn’t stop me playing football though and I can’t complain considering the accident I was in, and the injuries I had.

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“I love being out on my bike, and I’m very lucky that someday I could be back on the road again. I just have to make sure my parents are fine with it!”

Heather Arrowsmith, chief executive at the charity, said: “Hearing from patients like Alex really drives home how important the charity’s work is.

“Our crew are out there every day, having a life changing impact on patient’s lives, and it just wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support we receive.

“In our 21st year of service, and our 8th year celebrating National Air Ambulance Week, it’s amazing to take stock and see how far we have come, and it simply wouldn’t have been

possible without the support we’ve received over the years.”

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