Family support Santa Skydive Challenge

Joining the skydivers will be Paula Tohill from Portstewart, who knows first hand the difference the care and support offered by the charity can make to families living with childhood cancer.

Paula’s son Niall (24) was diagnosed in November last year with a rare brain tumour Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumour.

Paula told the Times: “This was the first time a tumour of this type had ever been identified on the brain stem.

“Even after the diagnosis of cancer our beautiful son continued to be optimistic and support us, we are blessed to have such a brave son whose strength, driven personality and radiant smile kept us from falling apart”.

She went on to say: “During Niall’s treatment our prayers were answered when I received a call from CLIC Sargent and was picked up from the hospital by one of the charity’s social workers and taken to CLIC House the charity’s homes from Home in Bristol.

“The facilities were excellent. Cancer treatment did put a big financial strain on my family, however CLIC House was a lifeline for me providing a friendly, relaxing place, away from the hospital where I could chat to other families who were going through the same journey as me.

“The CLIC Sargent Northern Ireland Home from Homes Appeal is going to be a fantastic resource for local families. I am going to do all I can to support the appeal and on 24th November my brother, sister and I are doing the Santa Skydive for CLIC Sargent as we are very grateful for their support”

Registration for the Skydive Challenge is £40 and is paid directly to Moonjumpers.

Each participant is asked to raise a minimum sponsorship of £360; £210 of this is the cost of the jump. The remaining sponsorship will be donated to CLIC Sargent Northern Ireland Home from Homes Appeal.

The Skydive Challenge is open to anyone over the age of 16 years old. All jumpers will receive their very own Santa outfit.

If you would like to become part of this exciting and thrill seeking event, then please contact Fionnuala on 028 9072 5780 or email her at [email protected].