Deborah to sky jump in memory of aunt Brenda

Deborah to sky jump in memory of aunt Brenda

16 March 2016

A DOWNPATRICK teenager will mark her 18th birthday by facing her fears in memory of a beloved aunt.

Deborah Fitzsimons will dive from the skies on the eve of her 18th birthday to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Despite a fear of heights, Deborah, who is a student at St Mary’s High School, is determined to undertake the charity dive to help others affected by the disease that led to the premature death of her aunt Brenda Bogues.

Brenda was diagnosed with the disease eight year ago when she was just 42.

Eventually dependant on a wheelchair and on carers for help, she passed away last summer, leaving behind four children and three grandchildren.

Deborah said the diagnosis devastated her family who rallied around to help with Brenda’s increasing care needs as the illness progressed.

“When she was sick Brenda was not able to do everything she wanted to do, like go on holidays more often,” she said.

“While she couldn’t do everything on her list, she made sure to spend as much time as she could with her grandchildren as that made her happy.

“She had good days and bad days when she was in and out of hospital a lot. The whole experience has made me determined to do something to help others with the disease.

“That was one of Brenda’s wishes before she passed, that we try to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

“A sky dive is one my own bucket list even though I am terrified. I just hope people will support my fundraiser.”

Anyone who would like to support Deborah’s fundraising effort may do so via https://www.justgiving.com/deborah-fitzsimons-skydive