A brave teenager is taking his birthday celebrations to new heights by preparing for a nerve-jangling skydive.
Aidan Schoene, from Mulbarton, received the thrilling present after turning 16 in August. He has long wanted to sign up for a skydive, but his parents always said no because of his age. However, they had a rethink and decided to sign Aidan up for the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) skydiving day in Beccles on Saturday, 20th September. As well as raising vital funds, he will also be jumping in memory of his nan, Libby, who died in June, aged 69.
“I definitely wasn’t expecting it,” said a shocked Aidan, who recently joined the Sixth Form at City of Norwich School. Mum’s always said she’d never let me do it, so opening the card and seeing my registration letter was a massive surprise. A skydive is something I’ve wanted to do for ages, and the fact I’m doing it in my nan’s memory makes it extra special.
“When I was younger, I was scared of everything and didn’t even like going on rollercoasters. Then something changed in my head, and now I want to test myself and try new things. A skydive seems like the most exciting thing anyone can do, and I’m sure it’s going to be amazing.”
Mum Joy had already set up a JustGiving page prior to Aidan’s birthday on 17th August. She then sent it live after he had opened his card. He has already raised more than £800, with many schoolfriends showing their support and donating, and the jump has added poignancy as he is doing it in memory of nan Libby. A collection took place at her funeral in June and raised just over £1,600 for EACH.
“My nan was great, and we were very close,” said Aidan. “I tried to visit every day after school and loved spending time with her. We were like best friends, despite the age gap between us. I really miss her but hope she’d be proud and smile if she knew what I was doing. She was also passionate about supporting charities, which is why we decided to raise money at her funeral. She’d definitely approve if she knew I was doing the skydive for EACH.”
Mum Joy said she will be bursting with pride, if slightly terrified, watching from the ground at Beccles.
“Aidan’s been keen to do a skydive for ages and asking for about a year,” she said. I was terrified at the prospect and managed to put him off, saying I wouldn’t let him until he was 18. However, he blew me away with the mature way he coped after his nan died. He wanted to help carry her coffin and volunteered to speak during the service, which was a big thing for a young lad to do.
“It was a reminder he’s growing up fast, and we reached the conclusion life’s too short. He was shocked when he opened it. I think he’s feeling a mix of nerves and excitement, but I know he’ll love it and be in his element. He deserves a special treat after what’s been an emotional few months.”
To show your support and sponsor Aidan, head here.
