Super Sunday Skydive and Marathon for Gold Dust Appeal

Over the weekend, members of the public and a selection of Derriford Hospital staff took part in two separate daunting tasks – a skydive and the Plymouth Half Marathon, to raise funds for our Gold Dust Appeal.

In Plymouth, a special group of family and friends, known as Team Andrea, took part in the half marathon in memory of Andrea Norris, a former executive head teacher of Beechwood and Oakwood Primary Schools, who sadly passed away last April.

Over 50 miles away in Honiton, 22 brave members of our staff leaped from an aircraft flying at 15,000 feet and dived through the air at over 120mph, whilst raising money and supporting our Gold Dust Appeal.

Sam Stocker, Executive Office Administration Assistant, decided to take part in the skydive after spending time on level 12 as a child. He said: “The day itself couldn’t have gone any better. The weather was perfect, with only a few clouds in the sky, the sun was out, and the support from family and friends was outstanding, with such a positive vibe throughout the venue.

“I couldn’t wait to skydive and my excitement couldn’t be contained as I was about to fulfil a childhood goal. Once I was in the plane, the instructor strapped me in and the photographer was filming all moments to capture the full experience. The door opened and the burst of instant adrenaline kicked in, I was eager to go and before I knew it I was falling from 15,000ft at over 120mph. Skydive for the Gold Dust Appeal

“Once the parachute had been opened, I was able to take it all in, experience the breath-taking views and reflect on what had just been achieved for such an amazing charity.

“I was proud to be able to do this, along with the other 21 members, for the Gold Dust Appeal. After being in hospital myself when I was younger, it was the perfect charity to have the honour to share this experience with. The day overall was one to truly remember and an experience of a lifetime.”

Some of the other comments we received on the day from the skydivers included:

‘The views were beautiful. It really was an amazing experience.’

‘It was the best experience of my life! I would do it again and again and again.’

‘I absolutely loved it. It was great to do something for such a wonderful cause. If anyone is thinking about doing it then please do, you won’t regret it!’

‘It was brilliant to have such an incredible experience whilst knowing that I am giving back.’

Emma Cronin, Gold Dust Appeal Fundraising Manager, said: “Yesterday was such a fantastic day, even the weather was on our side! I would like to say a huge thank you to all of the runners and the skydivers for their efforts. I would also like to say thank you to the many supporters who turned out to cheer everyone on and support our appeal.

“We hope to be able to share with you the amount raised later this week.”

The Gold Dust Appeal aims to raise £100,000 to create bright, exciting and welcoming wards for local children and young people at Derriford Hospital. We want to be able to care for children in a stimulating and sensitive environment with bright and spacious surroundings, which will provide greater comfort and privacy for children and their families.

For more information about the Gold Dust Appeal and how to get involved, please visit http://bit.ly/OurGoldDust