A nurse from Radstock has successfully completed a jump from 15,000ft in a tandem skydive to raise much-needed funds for Alzheimer’s Society.
Bridget Skinner, a 23-year-old Community Staff Nurse in Bath and North East Somerset, who describes herself as a bit of an adrenaline junkie, hoped to raise more than £500 to help people affected by dementia.
She has now raised more than £900 for Alzheimer’s Society.
The skydive took place on 5th March from Dunkeswell airfield in Devon.
Bridget said: “Skydiving was amazing and what made it a greater experience was knowing it was for Alzheimer’s Society.
“My original intention was to raise £500, so far we have raised £936, which is amazing. It is more than I could have imagined, especially as this is my first-time fundraising.
“I would love to make it up to £1,000 for the charity. People’s generosity has been overwhelming.”
To sponsor Bridget, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Bridget-Skinner.
Bridge continued: “I haven’t done anything like this before. I decided to take part in this challenge for Alzheimer’s Society because I am a Community Staff Nurse in Bath and North East Somerset and have noticed that many of my patients are living with dementia.
“It really enlightened me as to how this terrible disease affects them personally and their family life. Coronavirus has changed everything for people affected by dementia.
“Many people have experienced a deterioration in their symptoms and an increased loneliness resulting in even more pressure on carers and family.
“It’s great to think that I will be raising funds to help support people living with dementia now and to fund research to one day find a cure for dementia.”
Louisa Webb, Events Fundraising Manager for Alzheimer’s Society said: “Like all charities, our income has taken a huge blow due to the pandemic, while demand for our vital services like the Dementia Connect support line has sky-rocketed.
“Without the generosity of supporters like Bridget we simply cannot keep up. Her fundraising will make a big difference to lives of people affected by dementia and their families who have never needed us more.
“Every pound raised will help Alzheimer’s Society provide vital information and support, improve care, fund research and create lasting change for people affected by the condition.”