Dare to Care: Skydivers Raise Over £22,000 for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care Nurses in Thrilling 10,000ft Jump
Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury was where 28 brave souls gathered to take to the skies, leaping from 10,000 feet in a thrilling charity skydive to support Lewis- Manning Hospice Care nurses. With over £22,000 raised, the event not only gave participants an unforgettable adrenaline rush, but it will also make a huge impact on the patients and families the charity supports.
Bad weather caused delays which meant that 22 completed their skydive on the day, while six others will jump on a rescheduled date. The event, held at the iconic Old Sarum Airfield, paired each skydiver with one of the hospice’s dedicated nurses, ensuring that everyone involved had a personal connection to the cause they were supporting.
By the afternoon, the sun broke through, and the skydivers took to the air. Cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, hospice staff, and patients, the atmosphere at the airfield was electric with excitement and pride. Spirits were high as each participant learned the story of the nurse they were raising money for, forging a personal connection and a deeper appreciation for the vital work these nurses do. Their care and support for patients with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families, extend across Poole, East Purbeck, Bournemouth, and West Hampshire.
Dorset Chamber of Commerce CEO, Ian Girling, one of the day’s participants reflected on the experience, “It is fantastic to be here and be part of this incredible day. I felt so nervous, but the skydive was fantastic.
I can definitely say I have faced my fear of heights. Leaping out of the plane was the most terrifying thing I have ever done but the free fall was incredible!
I am so proud to support the charity and am very grateful to all our supporters.”
For Hannah Quick, a staff nurse at the hospice, the jump held extra significance as she leaped to celebrate both her upcoming 30th birthday and the cause she works for every day. “It was surreal—an experience like no other. I was nervous, excited, and queasy all at once, but looking out at the clouds and knowing I was doing it for our patients made it unforgettable. I’m so proud to be part of this and incredibly thankful for everyone who donated,” she said.
Head of Fundraising[VG(1] , Vicki Gray concluded, “We are thrilled with the support and energy that this event has created, reflecting the strength and generosity of the community in which we serve, we are extremely grateful to everyone involved.”