Whilst deployed on operations in the Middle East, RAF personnel have raised money for the charity ‘Service Dogs UK’ by participating in a 24 hour Spin-a-thon.
The supply section Sergeant on 901 Expeditionary Air Wing, who is currently deployed to Al Udeid Air Base, came up with the idea to combine an opportunity to promote fitness and wellbeing whilst also raising valuable fund for Service Dogs UK, a charity who support Armed Forces personnel suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Sergeant Potter pulled together a small team comprising of the Group Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Andrews, 83 Expeditionary Air Group’s A1 Warrant Officer, Warrant Office Bowens and the Group Padre, Squadron Leader (Reverend) Colley to organise a 24 hour Spin-a-thon and raffle.
The organising team set up 2 bikes and coordinated a rota for UK personnel to donate $2 for a 30 minute ‘spin’ session. The challenge was to make sure the bikes were constantly being cycled on throughout the whole 24 hour period; the team of 4 organisers stood by to cover any sessions. The support from the deployed personnel was outstanding; even in the small hours of the night, volunteers came forward to cover those 30 minute sessions. Music was being played and snacks and water was provided to the participants throughout the 24 hours – some challenged themselves to complete numerous sessions as well.
“Fundraising for the charity Service Dogs UK has been challenging and fun. The idea was to bring awareness to individuals suffering from PTSD and the benefits and improvements that a Service Dog can add to their quality of life. This event has brought the three core elements (83 EAG, 901 EAW and JFCIS) together as well as raising money for a worthwhile cause.”
Sergeant Potter
The event raised approximately £1093 from money being paid to complete Spin-a-thon sessions, additional donations and through the sale of raffle tickets. These funds will help support the training and care of carefully selected rescue dogs and transition them to become PTSD Assistance Dogs to support members of the Armed Forces and Emergency Services. £10 buys a dog first aid kit, £25 buys a grooming brush, treat ball, rope toy and £100 buys a special harness, training lead and bed.
“A huge thank you to all those supporting the Spin-a-Thon. We feel privileged to challenge ourselves and raise charitable funds at such an important time. The money that has been raised will support a charity that provides ‘Assistance Dogs’, selected carefully from rescue, to support members of the Armed Forces and Emergency Services who have PTSD. I would also like to provide a special thank you to Sergeant Potter who has been the inspirational driving force behind this successful event.”
Flight Lieutenant Pearce
Administration Officer at Al Ddeid Air Base
UK Armed Forces are deployed to the Middle East to support counter Daesh operations as part of the 83-member strong Global Coalition. Combating Daesh. Participating in activities to raise money for charity is a great opportunity for our personnel to have some fun whilst supporting a worthwhile cause. Events like this also support the resilience of our personnel and build team ethos whilst they are deployed away from their family and friends delivering Air Operations for the Royal Air Force in the Middle East.
