A much-loved paramedic who dedicated nearly 40 years to saving lives has died after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest while on duty, leaving his devastated family and colleagues mourning the loss of a man described as a hero.
Tim Sands, a long-serving member of East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) based in Lincolnshire, died on Friday 23 October 2026.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from relatives, friends and fellow emergency workers who remember his compassion, humour and unwavering commitment to helping others.
In a final act of generosity, Tim donated his organs, helping to transform the lives of three people.
His heartbroken son, Luke, said the donation reflected the character of a father who spent his working life caring for people in their most vulnerable moments.
Paramedic Tim Sands Dedicated Nearly 40 Years to Saving Lives
Tim began his ambulance career in 1988 when he joined Lincolnshire Ambulance Service, which later became part of East Midlands Ambulance Service.
Starting as an ambulance technician, he went on to qualify as a paramedic and spent most of his career responding to medical emergencies across Lincolnshire.
Based at Skegness Ambulance Station, Tim became a familiar and respected colleague among ambulance crews serving the county’s coastal communities.
Throughout his career, he helped countless patients and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
His colleagues have recalled his dedication to emergency care, his willingness to support fellow staff and his ability to bring warmth and humour to demanding situations.
Heartbroken Son Pays Tribute to ‘Hero’ Dad
Tim’s son, Luke, has spoken movingly about his father’s life and the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.
The family have taken comfort in knowing that Tim’s decision to become an organ donor has given three other people an opportunity for a better life.
Luke described his father as a hero and said the donation was a fitting final chapter to a career defined by helping others.
He also thanked East Midlands Ambulance Service colleagues for the kindness, support and personal memories they had shared following Tim’s death.
For the family, the messages have demonstrated how deeply Tim was respected by the people who worked alongside him.
East Midlands Ambulance Service Pays Emotional Tribute
East Midlands Ambulance Service Chief Executive Richard Henderson expressed the organisation’s sadness at the loss of such an experienced and respected colleague.
He praised Tim’s professionalism, compassion and the positive influence he had on those around him.
David Forman, Station Manager for Skegness and Mablethorpe, remembered Tim as a friendly and approachable colleague who always found time for others.
He recalled Tim’s cheerful personality, his sense of humour and the pride he took in his work.
Sue Cousland, Divisional Director for Lincolnshire, also paid tribute to his compassion towards patients and families.
Colleagues said Tim’s care for others went well beyond his professional responsibilities and that he would be greatly missed across the ambulance service.
Family Remember Devoted Husband and Father
Away from his demanding career, Tim was a devoted family man who enjoyed spending time with his wife, Dawn, and their loved ones.
He particularly enjoyed travelling, with the Lake District among his favourite destinations.
Tim and Dawn also shared a love of cruises and spending time together away from work.
Friends and colleagues have remembered his affection for animals, particularly cats, alongside his kindness and sense of humour.
His sudden death has left a significant gap in the lives of his family and the emergency service community he served for nearly four decades.
Fundraising Appeal Launched to Support Tim’s Family
A fundraising appeal has been established to support Tim’s wife, Dawn, and their son, Luke, following his unexpected death.
Donations are intended to assist the family with funeral expenses and essential household costs.
The appeal has attracted contributions from people wishing to recognise Tim’s years of service and offer support to his grieving relatives.
The fundraiser also highlights his remarkable legacy as a paramedic and organ donor.
After almost four decades spent helping others survive medical emergencies, Tim’s final gift has provided three people with renewed hope.
His family and colleagues say he will be remembered for his kindness, dedication and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
