Courage in freefall: mother-daughter skydive for Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity
When Alison Handley and her 16-year-old daughter, Lili, decided to leap from an airplane at 10,000 feet, it wasn’t just for the thrill. Their tandem skydive, (one of our organised charity events) last May, was a heartfelt mission to give back to the hospital that is supporting their brother and uncle, Darran, during his ongoing cancer treatment. Their inspiring story is one of bravery, determination and thanks.
A challenge with purpose
Darran was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2018 at the age of 50, which later spread to his lungs. As well as undergoing three operations, he is now receiving ongoing immunotherapy and chemotherapy treatment at The Royal Derby Hospital’s Combined Day Unit, which is currently helping to manage his condition. It was the care Darran has received, throughout his ongoing treatment, that was the catalyst for Alison and Lili’s daring decision. Having fundraised for Cancer Research in the past, Alison wanted to make a difference closer to home this time. “I knew that by raising money for Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity, the funds would directly support an area we really care about” Alison shared.
Overcoming fears for a cause
Alison, who is terrified of heights, saw the skydive as the ultimate personal challenge. “If I’m going to ask for donations, it has to be for something that truly tests me,” she explained. On the day of the event, Alison and Lili’s nerves were palpable. Remembering the support of their sponsors and the knowledge of the difference their fundraising would make, they were determined to see it through.
Lili was the first to jump and Alison received an incredible message mid-freefall from her tandem partner, assuring her that Lili had landed safely. “There was no turning back,” Alison recalled. “We thought of the many patients facing their own fears and challenges daily and knew we could face a few moments of our own.”
A family affair
Darran himself was there on the day, cheering them on with the humour and pride only a brother can deliver. Though he couldn’t resist a bit of teasing, his admiration for Alison and Lili’s courage was unmistakable.
Making a difference
Alison and Lili have kept their fundraising page open since the skydive in May, aiming to continue raising money throughout the year to further support the combined day unit. The tandem duo have raised total of £1605 which will go towards the purchase of a vein finder for the combined day unit. “Staff have always struggled to find veins on Darran, which can be painful and distressing,” Alison said. “This tool will not only ease that process for patients but also save time and effort for the staff.”
Alison also expressed her deep gratitude for the outstanding care Darran has received. “Even during the toughest times, the staff have been so positive. This is our way of giving back and helping future patients.”
A leap worth taking
Reflecting on the experience, Alison said, “I can’t believe we did it. It all went so smoothly and the skydive staff were incredible. It was a great experience and I’m ready for the next challenge!”
Thank You
Everyone at Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity would like to thank Alison and Lili for their incredible courage and contribution. Their bravery in freefall will help transform care for patients and staff alike.
Vein finders, while incredibly useful pieces of equipment, are not considered essential equipment and are therefore not covered by NHS funding. Thanks to the generosity of supporters like Alison and Lili, we can enhance the patient experience by providing equipment like this to ensure greater comfort.
Join the adventure
If Alison and Lili’s story has inspired you, why not take the leap yourself? We are now taking bookings for our upcoming annual skydive on Saturday 17th May 2025. It’s an opportunity to face your fears, make unforgettable memories and directly support your local hospital. Sign up today and make a difference that will truly take you to new heights.
Visit our skydive page to learn more Skydive – DBHC
If a skydive isn’t for you but you’d still like to support us you can:
- Participate in our weekly lottery.
- Take part in one of our other organised events.
- Visit our Get Involved page for more ideas.
Every contribution helps us fund initiatives that make a difference to patients and staff being cared for and working in our hospitals.