31-year-old Amy Crawford from South Port wanted to take on a brave and bold challenge to raise money for Leukaemia & Myeloma Research UK in memory of her inspirational mum. This February, Amy will be taking to the skies to complete her first ever skydive for charity!
Here is Amy’s fundraising story:
“I’ve taken part in Race for Life events before, but I wanted to push myself and take on a new and exhilarating challenge, which is how the idea of doing a skydive came about.
“On Saturday 29th February, I’ll be heading off to the Lake District with my friend Amanda to take on one of the biggest challenges we’ve ever done! This is the first time either of us has done a skydive, so we’re incredibly excited, but I’m sure as the day draws closer the nerves will start kicking in.
“In January 2019, I lost my amazing mum Linda to myeloma and secondary leukaemia. I want to take myself out of my comfort zone and raise as much money as I can for charity in her memory.
“My mum was a fantastic woman. She faced her cancer battle with such positivity and courage which made everyone around her so proud. She always picked herself up and remained positive, even when she faced disheartening news in her appointments.
“In 2012, my mum was diagnosed with multiple myeloma which led to having chemotherapy for six years, with a 16-month remission period. As a result of having so much chemo, she was later diagnosed with terminal, secondary leukaemia in October 2018, and passed away three months later.
“Throughout everything, my mum lived life to the full and always had the loveliest smile on her face. She always kept up with appearances, getting her hair and nails done to make sure she always looked glamorous, and we both loved nothing more than shopping trips, afternoon tea and girlie holidays together. Cancer didn’t define her; it was something we learnt to live with.
“I know my mum will be incredibly proud of both Amanda and myself for braving the skies and jumping out of a plane for charity, but I can hear her saying “what the hell are you doing that for?”. She’ll be watching over us as a nervous wreck until we land safely.
“My late mum’s partner, my boyfriend, friends and family will all be coming along to cheer us on, so we’ll be looking forward to seeing them all when we’re safely back on the ground.
“I first heard about Leukaemia & Myeloma Research UK when we were arranging my mum’s funeral. We asked people to donate to charity in her memory, and as she had both multiple myeloma and secondary leukaemia, the charity seemed like the perfect fit.
“We haven’t set ourselves a fundraising target, but we’re aiming to raise as much money as we possibly can. Between us, we’ve raised over £850 so far, which we’re so chuffed with!
“Everyone has been so supportive, from our family, friends, work colleagues, and even patients at work. It’s surprising how many people have been affected by blood cancer or know someone who has been, which motivates me further to help beat cancer once and for all.
“This is third time lucky for the skydive, as the first two attempts were cancelled due to weather conditions. I’m excited to do it (the nerves haven’t quite kicked in yet) but I’m sure when it comes to taking the giant leap of faith, the adrenaline will take over and make it an experience to remember.”
Everyone at LMRUK will have their fingers and toes crossed for Amy taking on her skydive on Saturday 29th February!
Good luck and a massive thank you for all your amazing fundraising for our charity.
If you’d like to support Amy, visit her fundraising page here: http://bit.ly/2HBgUBm.
Are you looking to take on a new challenge? Contact a member of our team on cs@leukaemiamyelomaresearchuk.org to find out more information on the different ways you can raise money for a great cause, or visit our website: https://lmruk.org/fundraising/.
