Local Hero with Stage Four Cancer to Abseil 75ft for Air Ambulance Charity
In an inspiring display of courage and community spirit, a local hero is proving that no obstacle can hinder a noble cause as he prepares to undertake a daring 75-foot abseil for the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC). Andrew Gibson, a dedicated volunteer living with stage four prostate and bone cancer, will descend from the roof of Ashton Gate Stadium on Sunday, May 3, accompanied by close friends and members of the charity's crew.
A Lifetime of Service and Unwavering Commitment
Andrew is no stranger to public service, having devoted his career to the military and ambulance service before becoming an integral part of the GWAAC volunteer team. His latest challenge aims to help the charity reach a £20,000 target, which is enough to fund nearly ten life-saving missions, demonstrating that his commitment to the community remains as strong as ever.
Despite his ongoing health battle, Andrew is determined to take on this formidable drop for the charity he deeply values. He expressed his pride in contributing to GWAAC's efforts, stating, "As a volunteer and supporter of the charity, I am proud to contribute in any way I can and to take part in fundraising initiatives that help sustain this vital service." He added, "GWAAC represents the very best of community spirit, combining exceptional people with world-class life-saving skills and equipment to deliver critical care when it matters most."
Inspiring Fundraising Efforts and Community Impact
Andrew's dedication extends beyond this event. On December 19, 2025, he slept outside on Chipping Sodbury High Street to raise funds for homeless veterans at the Royal British Veterans Enterprise. Just two days later, he participated in the Horton Tractor Festive Evening Run dressed as the Grinch to further support GWAAC.
Charlie Rowen, GWAAC events coordinator, praised Andrew's efforts, saying, "Andrew is an inspiration. Everyone at GWAAC feels very privileged that he has even considered attempting the abseil to help raise funds for our life-saving service." She encouraged others to join, noting, "It would be wonderful if others are inspired by his bravery and consider signing up too. It's a really fun event and we're hoping to raise £20,000, which could fund nearly ten missions to help local people who need lifesaving pre-hospital care."
Event Details and How to Get Involved
Participants in the abseil will ascend through the stands and onto the roof of the Dolman Stand before dropping beside the pitch below. All funds raised will support GWAAC's critical care and air ambulance services across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and parts of Wiltshire.
With one helicopter and three critical care cars, GWAAC's specially trained crew responded to 2,344 people in urgent need of medical care across its region in 2025, averaging six more call-outs per month compared to 2024. Andrew hopes his efforts will inspire others to contribute, emphasizing, "Events like this demonstrate the incredible power of community support. Quite simply, GWAAC is built on its people and its life-saving skills and equipment—and the charity cannot continue its mission without your generosity. Thank you."
Spaces for the abseil are still available, but interested individuals are urged to act quickly. For more information and to sign up, visit the charity's website.
