What's the news?
Bumbelance, the charity that runs a child-friendly ambulance service, has just added a ninth Mercedes-Benz vehicle to its fleet. As with its other vehicles, the new Vito van has been designed to be bespoke to Bumbelance, and uses the same bumble bee images and logos inside and out which are designed to make using an ambulance less scary for kids.
To eliminate stress and create more relaxing surroundings for children, its interior decor and features include all the online and interactive elements it is possible to provide with; WiFi, audio-visual and child-friendly gizmos that have made the Bumbelance service so successful.
Inside, the Vito has been designed to accommodate both a patient and family members, with ISOFIX seat anchors, space for up to two wheelchairs, and in a short while once some extra modifications have been made, the ability to carry a stretcher or even an incubator.
Brainchild of Kerry couple Tony and Mary Heffernan and their Saoirse Foundation, the Bumbleance service was established in 2013 with the goal of creating an Ireland "where the fear and stress of an ambulance journey for a child no longer exists." Since then, and with the support of Mercedes-Benz, the service has expanded considerably and today provides a range of supports for ill children.
Commenting, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manager, Fergus Conheady describes Bumbleance as: "One of the most worthwhile projects we have ever supported and one which we are proud to have been involved in since its inception."
Founder of Bumbleance, Tony Heffernan stated: "The children who need Bumbleance are thrilled to be transported using the world leading brand, we are very grateful for all the support which we receive from Mercedes-Benz, our long standing relationship will continue to grow and we look forward to introducing two further new Sprinters in the second half of 2019."