Published on: Monday 03 Aug 2015 at 09:23
Rebecca Smith, Matt Whitehall, Jennifer Pigram and Marie George, who work together at Down Hall Country House Hotel in Hatfield Heath, Rita Smith, from Epping, Sophie Moore, from Harlow, Archie Meager, from Ware and Jackie Wood, from Dunmow, all took the plunge from 13,000ft at Sibson Aerodrome for our July event.
Rebecca said: “The team and I wanted to do the skydive for St Clare as I know between us we have had previous connections with the hospice, whether it be a friend or relative that has required your care. We felt that as the Hospice is Down Hall’s neighbour, it would be a lovely thing to do to raise as much money as possible for a charity that is dear to our hearts and a great asset to the community we are both part of.
“The day was met with much anticipation and nervous laughter however, the experience itself was loved by all. Not only did we manage to raise just over £2,000, but the skydive was one of the best experiences of our lives. Exhilarating and fun, it is something that will stay with us all forever.”
Rita said she felt elation and relief when she landed back on the ground and it was great to be greeted by all her supportive friends.
“A skydive had been on my bucket list for a long time, so when a friend whose wife had spent her last days at St Clare’s told me about your fundraising, and offered to sponsor me, it went from there,” she said. “I know quite a number of people who have appreciated the support the Hospice has given them when they have needed it.”
Sophie said: “The adrenaline you feel after the skydive, and the experience itself, is beyond breathtaking. It was such an achievement when I landed and was definitely one of the highlights of my life.
“My motivation for doing the skydive for St Clare was due to the fact they have helped my family in the past through tough times and I just wanted to give something back. The whole experience, from raising the money to the skydive itself was so rewarding and I am so pleased that I was able to give back to such a worthy charity.”
Describing it as “the most amazing experience of my life”, Jackie said: “It has everso slightly changed my perspective on just about everything. I feel 10 years younger, enlivened, re-energised and totally life-affirming. It has made me want to do more and get more out of life to appreciate and enjoy every minute of the rest of my life, and never to get bogged down or grumpy ever again.”
She added: “If I hadn’t by chance picked up the flyer in St Clare’s shop in Dunmow I would never have done this and my life would have been lesser for it. Everyone should do this, or something like it, to appreciate how wonderful life really is.”
You can find out about how to take part in our next skydive on September 12 here.
