Sue's Sponsored Skydive
Sue Varvel, Director of Nursing for IRHH and a group of IRHH supporters took part in a sponsored skydive this July to raise funds for Iain Rennie. Despite the cancellation of the parachute day due to bad weather conditions, our determined group of jumpers rescheduled their jumps and each took part in a tandem skydive at 10,000 feet from Weston Airfield near Bicester.
Sue managed to conquer her to nerves in time to climb above the clouds with her tandem partner, Tim, and raised £1200 in sponsorship. Here is her story:
'The tumble out is the most frightening - like the fastest and scariest fairground ride. Then suddenly we were dropping - arms outstretched - very fast to the ground. I hadn't realised, stupidly, that the air would rush quite as much as it did and I had to concentrate on breathing..I was being filmed and the cameraman kept coming nearer to get some good footage and I had written a message for my daughters on my hands so as we were falling I pushed my hands out to show him - it was pretty amazing.
Then before I knew it the parachute opened and we were floating down gently. Tim pointed out Blenheim Palace and field where a polo match was taking place. And from very high up I could pick out Helen (Joels) in her red shirt and Maddie ( Blackburn ) next to her so I started waving - this bit felt much better!
 Sue's jump |
 Sue in the clouds |
The landing was incredibly smooth and gentle and several grounds men ran towards us in support. It was all over! My legs were like jelly but I did manage to jump up and down and give Tim a very grateful hug! Then I was treated to a drink and bacon butty!
It was an amazing experience and I am so proud of myself for doing it. Would I do it again - I don't think so - but then - who knows?'
IRHH supporter Diana Forster, also took part in the Skydive and had a fantastic experience. Although Diana isn't in a rush to jump again she is glad she took part and managed to raise a fantastic £1000!
 Diana |
 Diana in the clouds |
For further details on Skydiving for IRRH contact Fundraising for an information pack on 01442 89022 or email fundraising@irhh.org
24th July 2008
