If you’ve ever wondered where your LAAC appeal money goes, a London Mason has seen the other side of the story. Ketan Jashapara writes:

John Michael Dean SLGR SLGCR has been a London Mason since 1983 and has a passion both for sailing and flying light aircraft. He obtained his Private Pilot’s Licence in 1983 when he moved from Dorset to Kent; and has owned his small 2-seat aircraft since 1996. He enjoyed flying to destinations in Europe (Italy, Spain, Poland), flying twice a week since his retirement. He was Treasurer of his local branch of the Light Aircraft Association.

But John unfortunately suffered a life-changing accident in September 2024 and is grateful for the personal life-saving support from the London Air Ambulance (LAA). In his own words, ‘I have no doubt if they had not attended when they did, I would not be here”.

John has only pieced together the day’s events from third parties, as he was so severely injured in the accident that he does not recollect directly. Having taken off from an airfield in Essex, his aircraft engine stopped soon thereafter. This is very unusual as the engines generally have two sets of parts (spark plugs, magnetos etc.) to counteract one failing. The aircraft crash landed in a field nearby with considerable damage – indeed it is a write off. The accident is being investigated by the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) at Farnborough, but it will be several more months before their final findings are made public.

John’s injuries were many and various, including severe injuries to his left leg, right ankle, his eye and skull. Two walkers passing by pulled John out of the aircraft and called for help.

Fortunately, the London Air Ambulance were on the scene even more quickly than usual, as they were returning to base from another incident. A doctor and paramedic tended to John on-site. Their speed and medical expertise were vital in saving John’s life and stabilising his condition at the scene of the incident. The LAA decided it would be more beneficial for John to be transported to the Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, by land ambulance rather than LAA once he had been stabilised.  Paradoxically, this is because they are unable to provide certain types of moment-to-moment medical assistance once up in the air, whereas the land ambulance can continue treatment. The time taken to reach hospital was surprisingly similar on this occasion despite London traffic.

John spent nine weeks in hospital and was treated by various specialists. He slowly made progress and is now able to walk unaided and enjoys walking every day. He has, however, been unable to resume driving yet.

What was special, and particularly appreciated, is that the LAA Paramedic who attended the incident came to see John in hospital a few weeks after the incident. He relayed all that had happened medically in broad terms.

With the help of Sue, his caring partner, John was able to resume attending Freemasonry meetings in April 2025. He considers Masonry as a positive experience and was warmly welcomed back by everyone. John belongs to a Craft Lodge, Royal Arch Chapter and Mark Masons’ Lodge. He has previously held positions of Treasurer, Charity Steward and Almoner.

John has also since returned to his flying club on a social basis, enjoying the sense of community and camaraderie there; even though he does not expect to return to flying due to his age and medical condition.

As London Freemasons, we can be proud of our flagship charitable donation, having contributed £3 million towards the replacement of the LAA helicopters twice in the recent past. The LAA provides a vital service to our communities, as illustrated by this life-saving experience for one of our fellow Brethren.

This article is part of the Arena Magazine Issue 58 – Summer 2025 edition.
Arena Magazine is the official online magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in Arena Issue 58 here.

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