On Saturday 14 June, three brave members of the Kingsfleet team swapped spreadsheets for skydiving suits all in support of Suffolk Mind.
James McLaughlin, Tanishka Kawade, and Sam Wood took part in a 13,000ft tandem skydive at Beccles Airfield, raising funds and awareness for mental health across Suffolk.
Despite their nerves (and some very grey skies), all three completed their jumps before the afternoon weather rolled in and raised an incredible £1,618 between them. For James, the jump was especially daunting:
“Even though I am totally and utterly afraid of heights, the fact it was for something much bigger than me gave me the impetus I needed to follow through,” he said. “And I’m so glad I did because it was one of the coolest experiences of my life.”
Each of them supported Suffolk Mind’s mission to improve mental wellbeing across the region through education, support, and community outreach.
Sam’s said: “Jumping out of a plane was terrifying, but knowing every second of that freefall was helping Suffolk Mind make a real difference for mental health awareness made it the most exhilarating and rewarding experience of my life. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to contribute in such a high-flying way!”
The skydiving challenge was part of a wider effort involving local businesses and individuals coming together for a great cause with the Kingsfleet trio showing exactly what community spirit and a bit of courage can achieve.
Tanishka felt that “ The skydive was a great experience and I am really glad to have supported such a worthwhile charity.”
We’re immensely proud of James, Tanishka, and Sam for stepping so far out of their comfort zones and making a real difference.
If you’d like to support Suffolk Mind or find out more about their work, visit www.suffolkmind.org.uk.