BUMBLEance, the world’s first interactive children’s ambulance service has expanded its operations with the introduction of what is now its latest vehicle – a bespoke Mercedes-Benz Vito van. Built on an extra-long body, it becomes the ninth Mercedes-Benz BUMBLEance on the fleet and is finished outside and inside with the same cartoon ‘bumble bee’ imagery. To eliminate stress and create more relaxing surroundings for children, its interior décor and features include all the online and interactive elements it is possible to provide with; wi-fi, audio-visual and child-friendly gizmos that have made the BUMBLEance service so successful.
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”.
CAPTION: Kerry couple Mary and Tony Heffernan and their Saoirse Foundation have expanded the operations of BUMBLEance – the world’s first interactive children’s ambulance service – with the introduction of what is now its latest vehicle, a bespoke Mercedes-Benz Vito van. Photo: Colm Kerr, ARC studios.
