LESLEY KNIGHT, 50 The mother who’s funded 21 NHS helipads in memory of her son

Lesley was tragically bereaved 10 years ago when her 11-year-old son, Thomas, was killed in a traffic accident. He was flown to hospital by air ambulance but, with no helipad nearby, they had to land on the street. Turning her grief into something positive, she began fundraising for the HeLP appeal and has raised more than £686,000.

Which woman has inspired you in

your life? My cousin lynne because she’s kind and fun. I’ve always gravitated towards her.

What’s your mantra? What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

What couldn’t you live without? holidays! they give me time for some much-needed breathing space. spain is one of my favourite places. What advice would you give to your younger self? be confident and believe in yourself, because fear only holds you back. What achievements are you most proud of? the building of so many helipads, meaning that through the loss of my son, many lives have been saved. How do you feel about winning this award? really excited! When I opened the email, I just couldn’t believe it.

✢ helpappeal.org.uk