02/10/2026
We are excited to announce that Judge - GOLD, twice World Champion in paratriathlon has joined the HELP Appeal as an ambassador!
Drawing on his experience of a near-fatal car accident, Steve will help raise awareness of our mission and why hospital helipads are a vital part of emergency care.
Steve was treated at hashtag Northern General Hospital, which has a helipad that was built thanks to a £1million donation from the HELP Appeal. The accident crushed both of Steve’s legs, and he was told he might never walk again. He set himself ambitious goals through a long rehabilitation, eventually becoming a twice World Champion in paratriathlon. His experience has given him a personal understanding of how much timely medical treatment can mean.
Hospitals and air ambulance helicopters are essential when someone is critically injured, but the journey between them matters too. The HELP Appeal funds hospital helipads that allow helicopters to land close to specialist care, helping patients reach treatment as quickly as possible during the critical period often called the “golden hour”.
Steve explains in his book ‘Gold,’ the significance of time in a medical emergency: “Time is precious; time is delicate and it should be nurtured and looked after. Time should be respected because it is critical – none more so than when time literally means life or death.”
He adds: “After my accident, I understood how suddenly a life can change. Getting the right care quickly can give someone the best possible chance of survival and recovery. I’m proud to support the HELP Appeal and help more people understand why helipads matter.”
📸 Steve Judge with Sue Gould, who was seriously injured by a six tonne tractor on her farm. She was flown to Royal Stoke Hospital helipad which is currently being upgraded thanks to a £814,000 donation from the HELP Appeal.
