A new campaign from the Cancer Society of New Zealand means that Aucklanders can experience the indescribable rush of jumping out of a plane at 13,000 feet while raising funds for a great cause.
Jump For Cancer is a collaboration between the Cancer Society and Skydive Auckland, where supporters take on the challenge to raise $1000 each for the Cancer Society in order to skydive for free this May. The Auckland ‘Jump days’ are to be held on 20th and 21st May, however, an number of jumpers are choosing to jump on separate days in May.
Many adrenaline junkies signing up to scale new heights have a close personal connection with the Cancer Society and the cause they are raising money for.
14 year old East Aucklander Abby Plom is jumping to recognise the struggle her family has been through after her father was diagnosed with a stage 4 glioma brain tumour a year and a half ago.
“I couldn't imagine my dad and us going through this without the amazing support of family and friends. Unfortunately, so many people with cancer have to go through this alone. The least we can do is to raise some money for all those people struggling,” says Abby.
The Cancer Society relies on the support and generosity of the community. Every day, 71 New Zealanders hear the words, “You have cancer”. The money raised through Jump For Cancer funds the Cancer Society’s support programmes, health promotion programmes and cancer research.
33 year old Caroline Schuster from Flatbush has an equally emotional story behind her decision to jump, having lost both parents to cancer.
“I want to be able to do something to support those who are fighting a battle for their life. I can only hope and pray that my parents are watching me from heaven and smiling down on me for what I am about to do,” says Caroline.
Jo Austin from fundraising partner Skydive Auckland says that the work the Cancer Society does is close to the hearts of many members of the Skydive Auckland family.
“We're very excited to welcome the Jump For Cancer fundraisers. There's such a great atmosphere on the day with a lot of excitement as everyone is pushing their boundaries. They feel elated after the jump and stoked to be doing something for such a great cause,” says Jo.
For more information visit www.jumpforcancer.org.nz
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