Norfolk cyclist named Air Ambulance's 'Most Inspirational' patient
East Anglian Air Ambulance came to his rescue in Norfolk last year
Last updated 15th May 2021
East Anglian Air Ambulance have chosen a Norfolk cyclist as their 'Most Inspirational Patient' of the year.
Helicopter crews came to the rescue of Chris Marshall on the 12th May 2020 after he was hit by a car while cycling in Cromer near the golf club.
Chris told us a bit more about what happened: "Without them I probably would've died, well I certainly would've died.
"They put me into an induced coma at the scene, they punctured both my lungs to allow me to breathe, to allow more blood to get to my brain.
"I'd had three bleeds on the brain.
"Without them I wouldn't be here, it's as simple as that.
"They treated me on the scene for 90 minutes and then they flew me to Addenbrooke's in Cambridgeshire, where I spent time recovering in the ICU, and they were amazing as well."
The charity has recognised Chris and his recovery as part of their Inspiration Awards 2021.
Shortlisted nominees were either voted for by the public or by EAAA staff until a winner was chosen in each category.
About Chris, the charity said: "Throughout the year Chris has been nothing but positive and we admire his strength and determination.
"Over the last few weeks, he has managed to finally get back onto his bike and to celebrate he has signed up to the gruelling 435 mile Lap of Anglia event in August.
"This will be a huge mental and physical achievement and we will be behind Chris every step of the way!"
Giving Back
Since the crash last year, Chris has spent a lot of time recovering.
He's been spending a lot of time cycling indoors on a wattbike and is part of the Atom Racing Team, which he says has helped with his recovery, both mentally and physically.
In the last few months, Chris has also managed to get back into cycling outside, marking the anniversary of the crash with a ride.
To mark the milestone and to try and give back to the charity which helped save his life, Chris has signed up to do the Lap of Anglia in August this year.
It's a four-day event which will see cyclists complete a 435-mile lap of the region while raising money for the Air Ambulance.
Chris told us physically its going to be a challenge, but added that the mental strain is likely to be tougher: "I have just started, about a month ago, riding outside.
"That brings with it a whole different can of worms from a mental perspective and a worry perspective.
"I will never cycle alone again ever as I was on the day.
"I've got terrific friends around me who'll cycle with me."
Chris has set up a Justgiving page to try and raise ÂŁ2000 for the EAAA.
It'll be taking place between August 18th to August 21st.