Volunteer paramedics bring a Brentford fan back to friends

Paul Simpson thought heart failure had ended his days watching Brentford in person. On 18 September, volunteer paramedics helped the lifelong supporter return to the stadium with his wife, Wendy, and reunite with old friends.

The 69-year-old’s care team contacted London Wish Ambulance, which arranges meaningful trips for people approaching the end of life. Three London Ambulance Service paramedics gave their spare time to provide transport and support.

Brentford provided a stadium box. Paul watched the team beat Chelsea 3–0, caught up with fellow season-ticket holders and met former players. He said spending time with friends and family mattered as much as the football.

The charity’s earlier account describes another participant, Colin, visiting Ruislip Lido with his son. Such trips depend on volunteer time and donations for expenses including fuel and refreshments.

They cannot change a terminal diagnosis. What they can offer, as Paul’s evening shows, is the support needed to return to a familiar place and share it with people who matter.

Sources

• London Ambulance Service — Paul’s trip to Brentford
• London Ambulance Charity — how the programme works