David’s family fulfil his final wish

TO keep the spirit, heart and memories of David Ballantine alive, his family have poignantly fulfilled his final wish by raising money for the Air Ambulance NI.

A cherished son, husband, brother and uncle, Mr Ballantine of Glenhull sadly died on August 2 last year, as a result of a head injury sustained during a quad bike accident. Though surrounded by a local doctor and caring paramedics – which his family describe as his ‘angels’ – David, aged 35, was taken instantly.

Speaking to the UlsterHerald, Claire Campbell (née Ballantine), David’s sister, described how the ‘sky cried’ with rain on the afternoon of his funeral – before the sun came out and shone in glory, as a large congregation said their final goodbyes.

It has been a long and difficult year for the Ballantine family, with moments of heart-break and hurt interlocking the precious memories of David every single day – but they have received much comfort in fulfilling David’s meritable wish of supporting the Air Ambulance; and knowing that in doing so, they could be helping another in dire circumstances face another day.

At present, the family have raised £2,155 – and counting – for the helicopter emergency medical service, which is dedicated to responding to serious trauma and medical emergencies in Northern Ireland.

The money has been raised via donations in lieu of flowers, and through a donation box where Claire works as a hairdresser, ‘Claire’s Hair Studio’, Campsie, Omagh.

“David always said he’d love to do something for the Air Ambulance,” Claire recalled, with fondness. “Though they were not called to the scene of his accident, it was a service he always knew the value of: David realised that people never knew when they’d need it. Especially people like us who live rurally, and long drives away from hospitals.

“As a family, we understand fully and truly how an accident can change life forever, and so quickly,” Claire added. “We are not the first, and we won’t be the last.

“As such, we will keeping giving to Air Ambulance – again and again. If we can help save the life of even one person with the money raised, then it is worth it.”

A tribute to David

Claire said that ‘no morning, evening, or night passes’ when the Ballantine family don’t think of David.

“He was a quiet, hard-working man,” Claire said. “He was everyone’s friend. He is a badly-missed son, brother, uncle and husband. He never wanted to leave the area; he loved his farming. He loved his life.

“He is always in our minds and hearts.”

Claire has expressed deep gratitude to every single person who has supported the Ballantine family over the past year, and donated towards the Air Ambulance NI.

“We have been truly overwhelmed by the support, generosity and love of local people: People are just incredible,” Claire concluded.

“Please accept this acknowledgement in the UH as a token of our heartfelt appreciation and thanks.

“Much love from myself; mum Betty; dad Willy; brother Nigel and his wife, Paula; and my husband, Graeme.”

If you would like to donate to Air Ambulance NI, please contact Claire’s Hair Studio at 02882241900, or pop into the salon at 7 Campsie Road, Omagh, where a donation box is available.