A GRANDMA is preparing to face her fear of heights as she takes on a skydive in honour of brave families with children in hospital.
Sharon Davies, 53, will take to the 14,000 plunge in aid of Ronald McDonald House Charities UK, a charity providing free ‘home away from home’ accommodation and support for families with children in hospital.
The Castle Bromwich resident, who works at the charity as a Ronald McDonald House Birmingham House Assistant, will head to the skies over Langar Airfield near Nottingham on July 13.
Having worked previously as Learning Support at an infant school, Sharon was introduced to the Charity by another employee, and after learning about their mission to support families in need, was determined to join.
The grandmother of four said: “I’ve been given the opportunity to meet and support many families going through the most difficult times when their child requires specialist hospital treatment.
“No two days are the same. It’s so heart-warming to see families leave the House and return home with their child after long periods of uncertainty and worry.”
As families can sadly find themselves staying at the Birmingham House for long periods of time when their children require extended treatment, Sharon finds herself becoming more and more invested in supporting them in their day-to-day lives.
She continued: “I wanted to do something to raise funds so when I saw the skydive, I ‘jumped’ at the chance to get involved.
“A tandem parachute jump has always been at the top of my bucket list, and I can’t wait to do it – even though I’m not brilliant with heights; in fact, it’s one of my fears.
“I’ve feel really encouraged by my colleagues and family, especially my four grandchildren who can’t believe that their nan is going to do something as ‘crazy’ as jumping out of a plane.”
Ronald McDonald House Charities UK is an independent Charity, which operates 14 Houses across England, Wales, and Scotland, providing free ‘home away from home’ accommodation and support.
They provide a place to sleep, cook and retain some sense of normal life; a lifeline for families at a very stressful time, especially when they are far from home.
A Ronald McDonald House saves each family an average of £1,240 in out-of-pocket accommodation expenses.
Ronald McDonald House Charities UK community fundraiser Justine Cleary said: “We are all incredibly proud of Sharon for taking on this year’s skydive.
“It speaks volumes about her commitment to the Charity and her willingness to go above and beyond for our families. We wish her the best of luck on the day.”
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