April

Well – what an experience!

It all happened so fast once we were up in the air that I really didn’t have enough time to be as scared as I thought I was going to be - and some coping strategies I learned for my fear of flying really helped whilst I waited on the ground.

From being on the ground to 12,000 feet in the air and then shuffling out into nothingness was such an amazing experience – I wanted to do it again straight away!

When I was brave enough to stop screaming during freefall and actually took in what I was seeing, the views were stunning! It lasted about 45 second or so (that seemed more like 10)  - but once the chute opened (phew!) the views were breathtaking to say the least. I could see from the River Orwell to the coast and over into villages far away to the north. Apparently the little white dots were sheep.

The instructor who I was strapped to, who was a part of UK Parachuting from Old Buckingham Airfield, was absolutely superb – kept talking to me and pointing out all sorts of things down below us – he kept us up in the air for what seemed likes ages, but in real time was around about 5 minutes. The flight down was so smooth and quiet  - so peaceful.

The landing was as smooth as can be – all I had to do was tuck my legs up to avoid hitting the ground first  - and Adie – the instructor, basically walked us down to the ground. Not like the old landings of yesteryear when you had to have both feet together and roll over on impact!

In the end, thanks to the support of all those who sponsored me on this mad venture, I have pulled together £650 or thereabouts for St Elizabeth Hospice. The opportunity to donate still exists on the web site at www.justgiving.com/aprilsleapoffaith .......

A huge thanks to all those who sponsored me, encouraged me and helped make the day such a superb experience and worthwhile.

Ape.