Harriet Sandys, also known as Harriet Ray, a prominent figure in Somerset for her business of importing rugs from Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan, is now gearing up to drive an ambulance filled with medical supplies into war-torn Ukraine. Following the loss of her husband last September, Harriet, from West Compton, has turned her focus towards helping others, joining a convoy of ambulances organized by the international charity Medical Life Lines.
The specially adapted ambulance, intended to aid the injured in Ukraine, will be donated to charity workers in the country. Harriet, no stranger to humanitarian missions, previously participated in a convoy to Bosnia in the 90s. With the support of her community, she has been collecting various medical supplies, including crutches and walking sticks, from generous donors in the Shepton Mallet area.
In an effort to fund the mission, Harriet has embarked on a campaign to raise £7,500, utilizing a fundraising page on GoFundMe under her maiden name, Harriet Ray. Moreover, local initiatives such as a fundraising coffee morning and a charity event at a local inn are adding momentum to the cause.
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Harriet will be part of a convoy of disused NHS ambulances, embarking on a three-day journey from London to the Ukraine border. Preparing for the trip required her to complete an ambulance driving course in London, a task she confidently undertook given her prior experience driving a horsebox and a lorry to Bosnia.
Her dedication to continue her legacy of humanitarian work is evident as she hopes to deliver essential medical supplies and the ambulance to the people of Ukraine, demonstrating the spirit of compassion that exists within her and her community.