In September 2024, three brave members of the Pilgrims Hospices therapy team will conquer their fears and soar through the skies in a daring tandem skydive at Headcorn.

Their mission? To raise essential funds for Pilgrims Hospices, a charity dedicated to providing compassionate end-of-life care.

The team, comprised of physiotherapist assistant, Louise Jordan from Herne Bay, wellbeing practitioner team leader, Sharon Smith from Margate, and physiotherapy volunteer, Viera Howsam from Canterbury, is aiming to raise essential funds to support the life-changing work of Pilgrims Hospices.

Pilgrims Hospices, a charity providing compassionate and skilled end-of-life care to over 2,500 patients annually across its three inpatient units in Canterbury, Thanet, and Ashford, its Wellbeing centres and within patients homes, relies on voluntary contributions for 80% of its funding. Community support is vital to enabling the charity to continue its mission of helping people with life-limiting illnesses live well in both mind and body, making the most of the time they have.

I dream of raising enough for a minibus, many of our patients struggle with limited transport facilities in rural areas. It would be wonderful to make a huge difference in helping more patients access our therapy sessions, which are so important for their wellbeing.

Sharon Smith, Wellbeing Practitioner Team Leader

The inspiration for the skydive came from Viera, whose dedication as a volunteer supporting the Pilgrims therapy team with seated exercise groups fuelled her desire to do even more for those in their care.

“When Viera, our lovely volunteer, suggested the skydive, I was hesitant at first,” said Louise. “But as we talked about it, we realised we all had different goals — whether it was funding for the hospice patients’ gym or raising funds to purchase a minibus to help patients travel to therapy groups.

“We decided to take on the challenge together.”

Sharon said, “Honestly, Viera’s the wild one! She suggested it one afternoon, and the next thing we knew, we were all in! We are very excited and wish to thank everyone who has donated to our fundraising page and been so supportive of our slight moment of madness!”

The funds raised from the skydive will go towards improving services for patients.

Sharon said: “I dream of raising enough for a minibus, many of our patients struggle with limited transport facilities in rural areas. It would be wonderful to make a huge difference in helping more patients access our therapy sessions, which are so important for their wellbeing.”

Justine Robinson, Therapy and Wellbeing Services Manager, said:

“I know my team won’t keep their feet on the ground this time! They’ve been amazing, sharing their upcoming challenge with patients and keeping spirits high. Engaging patients with these stories is such an important part of our work, and it’s been a joy to hear patients share their own experiences. I wish the girls the very best on their high-flying adventure this September!”

The Therapy team’s skydive has already gathered significant support, with more than £3,000 raised so far. They hope to raise even more as the big day approaches. The event promises to be thrilling, with friends, family, and supporters cheering them on as they free-fall from 12,000 feet—all for a great cause.

To help Louise, Sharon and Viera soar to new heights for Pilgrims Hospices, visit their JustGiving page and contribute to their amazing journey.

Your support will make a world of difference!

Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured.  The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.