We are please to announce that Colin and Wendy Williams from Aylesford, Kent, are to be our first-ever Patient and Family Aftercare Ambassadors, sharing their powerful story to highlight the importance of ongoing support for families following traumatic incidents.
The announcement comes ahead of National Bereaved Parents Day (3 July), a time dedicated to recognising and supporting parents who have lost a child.
Colin and Wendy’s daughter, Aimee Williams, 30, tragically died in March 2022 following a serious road traffic collision in West Sussex. Two KSS helicopters were dispatched to the scene, reflecting the severity of the incident, but despite the efforts of specialist clinical teams, Aimee could not be saved.
Since their loss Colin, Wendy and their family have been supported by the KSS Patient and Family Aftercare Team. This support has helped them to understand the care Aimee received and offered comfort and connection during an incredibly difficult time.
Now, as Patient and Family Aftercare Ambassadors, Colin and Wendy will share their experience to help raise awareness of the vital role aftercare plays for patients and families, particularly when outcomes are not what anyone would hope for.
Colin and Wendy Williams said: “We know first-hand how devastating it is to lose a child, and nothing can take that pain away. But the support we received from the KSS Patient and Family Aftercare Team made a real difference to us during the darkest time in our lives. It’s a real honour to be the first Patient and Family Aftercare Ambassadors for KSS and by sharing Aimee’s story, we hope other families know they are not alone, and how important that support can be.”
Since Aimee’s death, Colin and Wendy have become dedicated supporters of KSS. In her memory, they established a KSS Bluebell Tribute Fund and have been active fundraisers for the charity, helping to fund missions and support other families.
Their appointment forms part of our growing ambassador programme, which brings together individuals with lived experience and community advocates and supporters to increase awareness of our work.
Our Chief Executive David Welch said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Colin and Wendy for their courage in sharing their story and for everything they have done to support KSS. Their insight and lived experience will help us shine a light on the importance of patient and family aftercare—an essential but often less visible part of our service. We are proud to welcome them as our first Patient and Family Aftercare Ambassadors.”
KSS provides specialist emergency medical care to save lives across Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Alongside this, the KSS Patient and Family Aftercare Team offers ongoing emotional and practical support to patients and relatives following traumatic incidents—ensuring care continues long after the incident.
If you or someone close to you have been cared for by KSS and would like support or have unanswered questions about the care that was provided, you can get in touch with our Patient and Family Aftercare Team by emailing patients@aakss.org.uk or calling 01634 471 900.
