AFTER being denied his pilot medical because he was HIV positive, James Bushe successfully campaigned for a change in the law.

Waiving his right to anonymity, in a bid to end the stigma surrounding people living with HIV, he spoke up about the rules which prevented him from doing his dream job.

“I’ve been fascinated with aeroplanes since I was a little boy,” explains James, 32, who lives in Glasgow’s west end.

“My older brother served in the RAF based in Lossiemouth so aviation was always a familiar topic of conversation in our house.

“I had my first flying lesson at 15 and from then I was hooked. There was no doubt in my mind that someday I was going to become an airline pilot.”

James was denied his medical in 2017 but after a successful campaign, UK and European regulations were changed. In January this year the 32-year-old completed his training to become a First Officer with Loganair.

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“I love my job because it doesn’t feel like a job,” he smiles. “One day you might be flying premiership footballers to their next away game and another, essential medical supplies to the islands. It’s a role that comes with a great sense of responsibility and after a safe day’s work, an equal amount of reward.”

When all flights were grounded because of the COVID-19 pandemic, he signed up as a volunteer with Project Wingman, based at Glasgow Royal Infirmary.

The charity provides a “first-class lounge” service for NHS staff in Glasgow hospitals, space for staff to “decompress” with support and a listening ear.

NHS staff are greeted with refreshments and snacks provided by Scotmid, which is donating snacks including cereal bars, biscuits, fruit, porridge pots, tea, coffee, juice and milk. The community retailer has committed to supporting a number of Project Wingman lounges across Scotland.

 

Harry Cairney, Scotmid President, said: “NHS staff are working day and night on the front line of the coronavirus crisis. The moment we heard about Project Wingman, we wanted to help. Our contribution is just a small gesture to say ‘thank you’ to the NHS staff in Glasgow for everything they are doing.”

Read more: Airline crew set up 'first class' lounge for NHS staff during COVID-19 crisis

James adds: "Behind the glamour of the uniforms and the luxury of the treats in our hubs, we’re a group of professional people trained to listen and empathise and to facilitate support for anyone who walks through our doors.

“I’ve experienced first-hand the benefits a peer support service can bring to a person’s overall wellbeing and if we can have that same impact on just one other person who comes to find us for a tea, coffee or listening ear, that’s mission accomplished.”

Keith Sivell, Project Wingman team leader at Gartnavel, had wanted to be a pilot since childhood – living under a flight path sparked his interest.

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So when he was told he had failed his medical because of a previously undiagnosed heart condition, it was a devastating double blow.

“It was a complete shock,” explains Keith, who lives in Glasgow’s west end. “I had no idea there was something wrong with my heart. I had to have a procedure where they operate on the inside of your heart while you are awake.

“I remember being amazed that it was only a day surgery.”

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Following the surgery, Keith successfully passed his medical. He became Pilot Manager with Flybe until it went bust earlier this year.

“With Flybe going into administration, I was made redundant – I am also supposed to be moving house and my wife and I are expecting our first baby,” says Keith.

“But Project Wingman has been fantastic. Getting likeminded crew together to help NHS staff, listening and supporting them through a stressful time, has helped the aircrews too.

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“Hearing the challenges faced by NHS staff has been humbling. It puts everything in to perspective.”

He added: I’m incredibly grateful for the work the NHS did to help me on my way to achieving my dream job,” he says. “The professionalism of the staff and support they gave me was incredible and I’m happy to now be able to repay that in some small way through Project Wingman.”