Sharon Maxted, a Kenilworth resident, is embarking on a journey to Ukraine, driving an ambulance packed with humanitarian aid. The trip marks her 70th birthday, fulfilling her wish to do "something special" instead of receiving traditional gifts.
Mrs Maxted will be accompanied by her husband, David, as they drive to eastern Poland. There, they will deliver the ambulance and its contents, which include medical supplies, warm clothes, and a mobility scooter, before flying back home.
The initiative stems from David Maxted's involvement with Kenilworth Lions, which collaborates with the Leamington-based charity Belvedere. Belvedere provides humanitarian aid, including ambulances and medical equipment, to those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. This particular ambulance will be the 70th sent to Ukraine by the charity since the war began.
Mrs Maxted expressed some apprehension about driving the vehicle through Europe, particularly as she has driven an automatic car for the past five years. However, her husband has reassured her that the route is predominantly on motorways.