They may be used to the heights of the Hornet and Skyraker, but staff from Flambards’ One2eleven play area experienced an all new high when they jumped from a plane at 10,000 feet.
Susie Hale, Sharan Tattersall and Haley Perrin took the leap of faith to raise cash for the Moebius Trust, which supports Sharan’s grandson Cody.
The two-year-old suffers from the debilitating Moebius Syndrome and his mum, Kim Eastwell, joined the skydive over Perranporth Airfield. Together the group raised £2,000.
This fundraiser was the latest to be organised at the Helston-based attraction, but it was the most daring so far – particularly because for Sharan and Kim it was their first ever experience in a plane.
The cost of making the tandem jump with the Cornwall Parachute Club was covered by One2eleven, meaning all the money raised goes to the charity.
The four girls had just half an hour’s briefing and basic training before making the 20-minute flight to 10,000 feet, where they then left the plane, strapped to an instructor, to free-fall for 30 seconds before the parachute opened.
Susie, the marketing director of One2eleven, said: “It was amazing – an out of body experience. I felt completely calm. Once the parachute had opened it was really quiet and you could look down and really appreciate the stunning view.
“On top of all the fun, we raised a good chunk of money for the Moebius Trust and hopefully awareness of the syndrome.”
Moebius Syndrome is a rare congenital disorder for which there is no known cure. It is believed there are around only 200 cases in the UK, which means very few people are aware of the condition.
It affects nerves in the brain, causing facial paralysis and other disabilities. In Cody’s case, he is unable to smile, frown or blink. He also has some weakness on the left side of his body.
The Moebius Trust and its supporters are currently working to raise £250,000 for a research programme to determine what causes the disability.
Kim said: “I’m so grateful to Susie, her family, who own Flambards and One2eleven, all the staff there as well as the staff at both RNAS Culdrose and Travis Perkins in Helston who have all been so supportive and generous. Every event we hold makes a difference.”
One2eleven will continue to organise fundraising functions for the Moebius Trust. Anyone wanting to make a donation should call One2eleven on 01326 554391.
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