Six brave Treetops Hospice supporters took to the skies, raising over £7,000 for the charity in an exciting tandem skydive challenge.
From those directly touched by the hospice’s care to thrill-seekers, each person had a unique story behind their jump at Langar Airfield, Nottinghamshire.
Peter Woods, from Codnor, jumped to celebrate his 80th birthday. “It was really exhilarating coming down and I’ve really enjoyed it,” Peter said. “I turned 80 a few months ago and I knew I wanted to do a skydive so when I saw I could jump for Treetops, that was it. It’s a really important charity and I know it makes a big difference raising all this money.”
Martyn, Mandy and Fiona on the charity skydive day for Treetops Hospice
Martyn Ingram from Chellaston is receiving support from Treetops following a diagnosis of a Stage 4 brain tumour. Martyn shared his thoughts after the jump:
“It was the best experience I’ve ever had in my whole life! I’d love to do it again. Treetops is a charity very close to my heart. When I first came to the hospice, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect but it’s a fantastic place. I’m totally blown away by the passion, kindness, and friendliness of everyone. They can’t do enough for me and others who need their help.”
James Birchmore, from Codnor, received the skydive as a surprise gift from his wife on Christmas Day. “Treetops supported my mother-in-law and has done a lot for my wife and family, so this all raises money for a good cause,” James explained. “I felt a mix of everything going up in the plane – nervous, excited – but it was brilliant. I’d do it again for sure.”
Others who jumped for Treetops included Julie Cook, whose husband was cared for by the local charity, and Martyn’s friends Mandy Taylor-Warby and Fiona Keppel-Spoor.
The thrilling event helped raise vital funds for the hospice which provides nursing care and emotional support for adults with life-limiting conditions, those who’ve been bereaved, and their families. Every year, Treetops provides vital care and support to over 2,500 people across Derbyshire.
The next Treetops Skydive Day takes place on Saturday 27 September. Supporters are asked to raise £432 in sponsorship which would help fund four nights of Hospice at Home nursing care. To register, head to www.treetops.org.uk/slydive2025
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Cover photo: Peter, Julie and James celebrate their skydive for Treetops Hospice
About Treetops Hospice
Treetops Hospice, one of the leading end-of-life care charities in Derby, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, provides nursing care and emotional support for adults with life-limiting conditions, those who’ve been bereaved, and their families.
The charity provides support from diagnosis onwards for patients with conditions such as cancer, motor neurone disease and heart and respiratory conditions.
Last year, our team of nurses provided over 22,000 hours of nursing care for patients at the very end of life, in their own homes.
Our team of bereavement counsellors provided over 4,600 counselling sessions – more than 1,200 of them to children and young people. Our Wellbeing team members provide valuable information and support to those who need it.
Treetops is doing all it can to continue to support those in most need and welcomes donations to ensure the future of the hospice and its services: www.treetopshospice.org.uk/donate
A donation of £34.50 helps provide a counselling session for a bereaved child. A donation of £108 helps provide nursing care through the night for a patient at the end of life.
Treetops Hospice Trust, Derby Road, Risley, Derbyshire, DE72 3SS
0115 949 1264 | www.treetopshospice.org.uk
Registered Charity Number 519540
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