I jumped 10,000ft through the sky in memory of my wife Joan
In 2020, Geoff’s wife Joan passed away from COPD. This year, he took part in an incredible skydive to help fundraise for the British Lung Foundation, in memory of Joan. In this blog he tells us Joan’s story, and about his skydiving experience!
My name is Geoff, I’m 69 years old, father to two wonderful boys and grandfather to 4 lovely girls! My passions include Rugby League, reading and walking, but this year I decided to do something a bit different. I never thought I would take the plunge and dive 10,000 ft through the sky, but I was determined to do something incredible to honour my late wife Joan.
Why I chose to do a skydive in memory of Joan
I was married to Joan for 44 wonderful years. We had our sons David and Michael, who gave us our four beautiful granddaughters. Joan became unwell when she was hospitalised with pneumonia in 2018. We were on holiday in Ibiza at the time, our favourite place to go together.
After numerous tests, Joan was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in 2019. She sadly passed away on April 19 2020.
I decided to do a skydive in aid of the British Lung Foundation, as one of my former colleagues had also decided to raise money for charity by taking on the huge challenge. I thought it would be a fantastic way to raise money for the BLF whilst also honouring Joan. I raised a total of £1,455, which was incredible. I was so proud to have raised such an amazing amount for a charity which funds ground-breaking research and vital care and support for people with lung conditions like Joan.
The dive
The skydive was a truly remarkable experience, my favourite part was jumping out of the plane. Walking to the plane and the actual ascent was incredible. We couldn’t have asked for better weather conditions too. It was cold but completely clear, which made it even more special. I was apprehensive before I took the dive, but not scared. I would say I was more excited. The feeling of jumping out of the plane was indescribable. I felt such a huge sense of freedom, the adrenaline rush was next to none.
I loved every second of my skydive. I would like to do it again, just for myself. I felt exhilarated afterwards and proud of my achievement.
I’d recommend to anyone wanting to do a challenge like this to fundraise for BLF to just go for it! Not only did I fundraise for an amazing charity close to my heart, but it was also a huge accomplishment for me. Definitely one to tick off the bucket list!
Want to do a challenge like Geoff and raise money for BLF? Find out more about our many challenges.
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