This festive season, Ambulance Victoria (AV) is celebrating Orbost local Christopher King, who’s donated a staggering $80,000 over two years to thank paramedics who saved his life.
After surviving a heart attack and being airlifted twice by advanced life support (ALS) paramedics, Chris was inspired to give back. In 2023, he donated $40,000 to Air Ambulance Victoria (AAV), supporting the vital helicopters and planes that shuttle patients across the state.
“Living four hours from Melbourne, the air ambulance got me to The Austin Hospital in under two hours—exceptional care that I’ll never forget,” Chris said.
But his generosity didn’t stop there. Chris also gave $40,000 to the local Orbost ambulance branch, backing the ALS paramedics and Ambulance Community Officers who helped him and his family.
“The Orbost crews cared for me and my mother with professionalism and compassion every time,” he said. “Supporting them felt like the right thing to do.”
AV Acting Orbost Team Manager Nathan Looby said Chris’s donation is a powerful reminder of the difference paramedics make every day. “Knowing our care inspired such generosity is truly humbling.”
AAV Air Operations Manager Brad Martin added, “Chris’s gift will help upgrade our equipment and resources, ensuring the highest level of care and safety for thousands of patients each year.”
Donations above $2 are tax deductible and boost AV’s ability to deliver world-class emergency care beyond government funding.
“I probably wouldn’t be here today without their help,” Chris reflected.
To support Ambulance Victoria this festive season, visit ambulance.vic.gov.au/donations.
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