Luke’s 30th birthday – celebrating his legacy

On 3 May 2025, Luke Allen should have been turning 30. Instead, his family and friends marked the day in a different way — by celebrating the incredible legacy he’s left behind. Since losing Luke in 2018, his loved ones set out with a heartfelt goal: to raise £30,000 in time for what would have been his 30th birthday. But thanks to years of determination, generosity, and unwavering community support, they haven’t just met that goal — they’ve smashed it, raising over £40,000 for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC).

The milestone was marked in a deeply moving way, with over 30 of Luke’s friends and family gathering at GWAAC’s shop in Keynsham for a special cheque presentation. Among those attending was GWAAC’s Supporter Engagement Officer, Daniel Hanley-Shearing. “It was an honour to be part of the cheque presentation on Luke’s 30th birthday. You could feel the love and togetherness among everyone there. Seeing so many people come together, not just to remember Luke but to keep his spirit alive through action, was incredibly moving. His legacy will help save lives, and that’s something truly powerful.”

The room was filled with emotion and energy — hugs, stories, laughter, and a few tears — as those who knew and loved Luke took time to reflect on the person he was and the difference his memory continues to make. The cheque presentation wasn’t just a symbolic moment; it was the culmination of seven years of tireless effort from Luke’s family and friends.

Leading much of the fundraising has been Luke’s sister Holly, who has shown incredible resilience and drive in the face of such profound loss. From Facebook fundraisers for birthdays and Christmas, to raffles, auctions, and large-scale events, Holly and the Allen family have put their hearts into helping others. One of the most memorable events was a black-tie charity ball held on the first anniversary of Luke’s passing. With a three-course meal, speeches, dancing, and a packed raffle and auction, the evening raised over £5,000. “That night was so special,” Holly said. “It felt like a real celebration of Luke’s life.”

Local businesses rallied behind the family, donating prizes and offering support that helped elevate every event. “We couldn’t have raised half as much without the support of our community,” Holly added. “Luke’s friends and our family have been incredible.”

The impact of their efforts has been profound. The money raised in Luke’s memory has now helped fund over 15 GWAAC missions — each one a chance for someone else’s loved one to survive a critical moment. Each one a life potentially saved. For a charity that receives no day-to-day government or lottery funding, this support is not only appreciated — it’s essential.

“GWAAC is very close to my heart for all of their efforts to try and save my brother Luke,” Holly said. “The work they do is beyond amazing. They save lives every day, and they stay in touch with the families they’ve helped. That kindness and compassion really means a lot.”

Though the pain of Luke’s loss hasn’t faded, the community around him has chosen to channel their grief into purpose. In doing so, they’ve kept his memory alive in the most meaningful way — by helping others. “Luke was always the life and soul of the party,” said Holly. “He would do anything to help someone else. I think he’d be really proud to see how many people have come together in his name.”

On what should have been a day of birthday celebrations, Luke’s legacy was celebrated in a way that truly reflects who he was: full of life, full of love, and surrounded by people who care deeply.

Thank you to everyone who has donated, fundraised, laughed, cried, and shared Luke’s story. He will always be part of GWAAC’s story — and the lives saved in his name are a powerful, lasting tribute.