Skydive raises over £4,000 for chemo unit

Owain Jenkins, Lisa Hurcombe and Hayley Jenkins braved a 13,000ft skydive in support of the Chemotherapy Day Unit in Bronglais Hospital which provided care and treatment to their family member, Gareth Jenkins.

The trio took part in the jump at Hinton Airfield in Brackley, England on 8^th October 2023 and raised an incredible £4,267.95 for the Unit, where Gareth received fantastic care.

Gareth sadly lost his battle with cancer on 14^th February 2024. 

Hayley Jenkins said: “We decided to do the jump to raise money for the chemotherapy unit in Aberystwyth because my Dad, Gareth, was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer in 2022. He was given brilliant care and treatment in the unit and the staff were so supportive.

“He had numerous chemo sessions and was so happy and shocked when we told him we were raising this money in his name. When we put up the link for donations, we were all overwhelmed by the support from all his friends, family and everyone who knew him.

“He fought the cancer every step of the way and was determined to come and support us on the day we went to do the jump. We were lucky enough that he was well enough to come. It was a lovely, sunny and calm day. It was nice for us all to be together doing something fun for a good cause. It was even more special with Dad being there, even though he did admit he was nervous watching his family jump from a plane!

“He was very proud of what we did and how much money we had raised. When we got told he didn’t have long left in January 2024, he wanted to make sure that everyone who donated knew how much he appreciated every penny they gave. I don’t think he realised how much he meant to everyone until the final total.

“We are blown away by the donations. My Dad was a very kind person with many friends who wanted to help. Thank you to everyone who supported our bravery, everyone who donated, all that have supported us since Dad lost his fight. We will forever be grateful for everything they have done. We would especially like to thank Tracy Jenkins for the support she showed Dad and us as a family throughout his fight.” 

Bridget Harpwood, Fundraising Officer, said: “We would like to say a huge well done and thank you to Owain, Lisa and Hayley for taking on the skydive to raise funds for the chemo unit. 

“The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.” 

For more details about the NHS charity and how you can help support local NHS patients and staff, go to www.hywelddahealthcharities.org.uk