Skydives to fundraise for cancer

Those wanting to raise money for the New Zealand Cancer Society are being told to go take a flying jump — quite literally.

The society is inviting courageous people to go skydiving in their Jump for Cancer campaign to support the one in three people affected by cancer.

The skydive fundraiser will take place at Skydive Wanaka on May 14 and at NZONE Skydive Queenstown on May 28 where Cancer Society staff will be cheering on the brave jumpers.

Skydivers can also arrange another time in May if those jump days do not suit.

Cancer Society Otago and Southland chief executive Rachael Hart said she would be doing a skydive, despite being "terrified" by the idea, but felt it could not be as terrifying as being told you have cancer.

"This ultimate adrenaline fundraiser will offer an unforgettable experience.

"I am terrified of heights, but if skydiving was easy, it wouldn’t be a challenge.

"Every day, 71 New Zealanders hear the words ‘You have cancer’.

"How frightening would it be to hear these words? I am jumping for all these brave people that live with cancer every day."

She said fundraisers who raised a minimum of $1000 would get to take their plunge for free.

The money raised would support people with cancer and programmes to help prevent cancer.

"I have witnessed so much pain and anxiety watching our patients go through their cancer journey.

"I challenge businesses and individuals to take the plunge with me so we can all make a difference."

john.lewis@odt.co.nz