A new community project, Airshow Heroes, is offering families affected by cancer the chance to enjoy VIP days out at UK air shows. The initiative was set up by Helen Webb, a former employee of the Royal International Air Tattoo, following her own recent cancer diagnosis.
What Airshow Heroes Provides
The project funds tickets, VIP experiences, goody bags, photography and memory-making extras for families living with cancer. Each event is tailored to families local to the air show, with the first opportunity being the Hampshire Air Festival at Thruxton Aerodrome on September 12 and 13.
Nominations are open to anyone currently receiving cancer treatment who lives within about 30 miles of Thruxton, including residents of Andover, Salisbury, Tidworth, Basingstoke and Swindon. The aim is to offer a few hours of escape, excitement and shared joy at a time when patients and their loved ones may need it most.
Founder’s Personal Motivation
Helen Webb said: "I have been part of the airshow community for nearly 20 years and I know first-hand how uplifting aviation can be. Since my diagnosis, I understand even more deeply how important it is to create moments of joy, distraction and togetherness for both the person in treatment and the family and friends supporting them. Airshow Heroes is about using the magic of airshows to make difficult days feel a little lighter."
Families do not need to have young children to be considered. Nominations are open to adults, couples, carers and groups of friends where a member is receiving medical care.
How to Support or Nominate
Members of the public can support Airshow Heroes via its crowdfunding page at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/airshow-heroes. Donations will cover tickets and the additional touches that turn a day out into a lasting memory.
Helen added: "If you know a family near Thruxton who are going through cancer treatment, please help us find them." To nominate someone or find out more, email fly@helenwebbaviation.com.
