Devon Air Ambulance has launched a new space on their charity website dedicated to loved ones who have sadly been lost by families throughout Devon and beyond.

Family, friends, neighbours and colleagues are encouraged to leave special messages and memories in the charity’s new online Memory Garden as a tribute to their special person, a wonderful way to celebrate their life. 

The first memory is a touching tribute from the charity’s founder Ann Ralli, a mother who turned her personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for her community and the county of Devon, a lasting tribute to her beloved son Ceri.   

Since her son’s death in 1986, Ann spent six years holding countless fundraisers, liaising with many council, health, and aviation officials, and gaining vital support of those in her local community and across Devon before the charity, and its services, were officially launched in 1992.  

Ann said:

‘It was hard to come to terms with the idea that an air ambulance we didn’t yet have could have saved his life, a life that potentially would have enabled him to do all the things he cared about. Ceri would have been the first to recognise the value of an air ambulance and to work towards making it happen. That’s when I realised he still could.’ 

As Devon Air Ambulance continues its mission to serve the community, they are delighted to unveil this new offering that pays homage to Ceri’s memory while empowering others to leave dedications for their loved ones.  

Jo-Anne Rigby, Head of Fundraising at Devon Air Ambulance said: ‘

We are so proud to launch our new In-Memory pages, providing our supporters with a way to pay tribute to their loved ones with a touching dedication in our Memory Garden. Our charity was founded by a mother who turned her grief into a wonderful tribute to her son, so we feel that this new space creates a special connection to Ann and Ceri.’ 

Whether you have been personally touched by the life-saving efforts of Devon Air Ambulance or simply want to honor the memory of a loved one, visit the Memory Garden here to leave a special message of your own. 

You can also donate in memory of your loved ones. These contributions directly support the operation of Devon Air Ambulance, ensuring that life-saving services remain available to all who need them. 

Photo: Devon Air Ambulance