West Ham Star Michail Antonio Reunites with EHAAT Crew Who Helped Save His Leg

West Ham United forward Michail Antonio paid a special visit to Essex & Herts Air Ambulance’s (EHAAT) North Weald airbase to meet the crew who played a crucial role in his care following a serious road traffic collision. The reunion was filmed by the BBC for their Morning Live television show, helping raise awareness of the vital services provided by the charity. 

From 13th May 2025 you can watch a special documentary called Michail Antonio: Extra Time on BBC iplayer (available for 30 days), where he discusses his recovery and explores therapy taboos and accessibility.

On Saturday 7th December 2024, EHAAT’s Pre-Hospital Care Doctor, Dr James Moloney and Critical Care Paramedic, Rob Moon attended the scene alongside East of England Ambulance (EEAST) paramedics, Essex Fire & Rescue crew, and Essex Police, all working together to safely free Michail from the wreckage of his car. Driving the rapid response vehicle (RRV) to arrive at the scene within minutes of receiving the dispatch call, James and Rob quickly assessed Michail’s injuries, identifying significant damage to his right leg and expressing concern about a potential brain injury due to his confused state. They administered pain relief, treated his leg injuries, and stabilised him for transfer to a major trauma centre in London.

During the journey, via ambulance, the EHAAT clinicians remained by his side, monitoring him and ensuring a thorough handover to emergency department doctors upon arrival. Their swift and expert intervention meant Michail received immediate treatment, helping to save his leg and minimise long-term effects.

As part of a BBC Morning Live series exploring coping with trauma and recovery, Michail visited North Weald to meet James, Rob and Patient & Family Liaison Nurse, Trish Burton whose team provides aftercare support and advice to patients and their families long after the initial emergency.

Expressing his gratitude for the care he received, Michail said:

“I really can’t remember much about the accident—or even the hours before it and the days afterward. Meeting James and Rob has been incredibly helpful in filling in some of the blanks for me. I can’t thank the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance team enough for everything they did that day. Seeing the wreckage of my car, I know things could have been far worse without their expertise.

Meeting them again and learning about the incredible aftercare the charity provides through the Patient & Family Liaison Team has been truly eye-opening. Knowing that EHAAT is a charity relying on donations to continue this vital work makes it even more important for people to support them however they can.”

James reflected on the reunion, highlighting the impact these meetings have on both patients and the crew:

“As frontline clinicians we play a vital but relatively short part in a patient’s journey, attending to them when they are at their most seriously ill or injured. That’s why reunions like this are so valuable—it gives us a chance to see the progress they make. Meeting Michail again and seeing how well he is doing was fantastic.

It’s also important to recognise that every emergency response is a team effort. Without the support of the other emergency services at the scene—paramedics from EEAST, Essex Fire & Rescue, and Essex Police—we wouldn’t have been able to do our job. Their quick actions played a crucial role in Michail’s care, and we’re grateful to have such strong partnerships.”

Watch the documentary (available until 13th June) here.

Watch the BBC Morning Live interview here.

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