A Wells woman preparing to drive medical supplies to Ukraine says she has been "overwhelmed" by the generosity of local people after doubling her fundraising target in under a week.

Harriet Ray launched a GoFundMe appeal earlier this month to raise £1,000 to buy lifesaving equipment for her upcoming trip to the war-torn country. In less than seven days, more than £2,000 has been donated – allowing her to purchase 60 Combat Application Tourniquets (CAT 7s), as well as warm clothing, food and medicines.

She said: "I have been overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity in donating to my GoFundMe page. My initial aim was to raise £1,000 but in just under a week, over £2,000 has been raised."

The equipment and supplies now secured include:

• 60 high-quality, lightweight CAT 7 tourniquets
• 50 warm fleeces
• 50 pairs of new wool socks
• 120 energy drinks and 400 protein bars
• Paracetamol and Ibuprofen

Local people have also donated tents, sleeping bags, walking boots and medicines to support the mission.

Harriet explained that the tourniquets are vital in preventing fatal blood loss from traumatic injuries: "Uncontrolled bleeding can be life-threatening and having these tourniquets to hand allows individuals to provide immediate care whilst waiting for expert medical help. They significantly increase the chances of a preventable death."

Harriet will drive a Mitsubishi L200 loaded with the supplies to Ukraine at the end of the month. The vehicle, chosen for its off-road ability, will also be used to evacuate wounded people from areas hit by the conflict.

A photo shared with donors shows Ukrainian ambulance drivers forming a heart shape with their hands in thanks for the aid being sent from Somerset.

advertisement

Donations can still be made via her GoFundMe page at: Donate towards life saving tourniquets