I have always wanted to take part in a challenge to support a charity, but what can I do?...
I am a lousy runner and my cycling options are slightly limited (I own a bike that doesn’t move (spin bike) and another that is not built for cross-terrain (a Brompton!), so my thinking is to jump out of a plane instead!
On Sunday 20 August (fifth time lucky!) I have booked to do a Tandem Jump (13,000ft) with my friend, Steve, at The London Parachute School, near Salisbury, to raise funds and awareness for the MNDA (Motor Neurone Disease Association), but due to high winds, the jump has been pushed back to 9 July 2023.
MND is a rare condition affecting the brain and nerves. This illness eventually weakens and destroys the muscles and the outcome is fatal and short-lived.
Six years ago, my Mum, Sandra, was diagnosed with the heart-breaking illness. My Mum was told that she had 18 months to live. She made 2.5 years due to being determined to see as much of her youngest grandson (my son).
On the day of diagnosis, the stopwatch was pressed and like a mission against time, the family was thrown into the bewilderment of researching on Google and trying to find any kind of miracle cure, magic potion and possible remedy to have some hope of better quality and extension of life.
44 years on, after The MNDA was founded, there is still no cure.
If you feel that my crazy action of jumping out of a plane, is worth a donation, no matter how big or small, I will appreciate your kindness and support (and no doubt a PUSH!)
All proceeds will go directly to this charity and Steve and I are covering the cost of the jumps.
Thank you so much.
Sam
