Diana reflects on her fundraising experience

Taking fundraising to new heights

How far would you go to support a cause you care about? For our Specialist Nurse Diana Wilkinson, the answer was high above the Lincolnshire countryside. Together with her husband, she took on a gliding challenge that pushed her out of her comfort zone, tested her nerves and created a memory that will last a lifetime. Diana reflects on her experience below.

Flying for Paget’s

I never imagined I’d find myself flying in a glider, let alone taking the controls, instead of just being a passenger. The challenge was something my husband, Brian, and I decided to do as part of our fundraising efforts for the Paget’s Association. Thanks to the amazing support of everyone who sponsored us, we raised a fantastic £1,049 and contributions are still being made, which means so much.

We arrived early with our support team, Janet and Graham Dixon. As Janet lives with Paget’s disease, they understand why fundraising matters and they’ve been supported by the Paget’s Association themselves, attending our events and being connected with a rheumatologist and surgeon who provided the help when they needed it most. They’re tireless fundraisers themselves, regularly raising money through eBay sales and car boot events.

Arriving early meant we were able to watch the gliders closely. I admit, I was worried about the launch, as I was not entirely sure how a winch-launched ascent would work. With no hills in the area, a winch is the only way to get the glider into the air. After watching a few take-offs, it was clear just how efficient the process is. After the launch, the glider is on its own. With no engine to rely on, the pilot must read the sky, searching for thermals, invisible columns of warm air that lift the glider and keep it soaring. Unfortunately, on that day, thermals were in short supply and so we would not be able to get anywhere near Pat’s recent achievement of five hours in the sky! Watching them come in to land was incredibly peaceful, with a real sense of calm as they silently returned to the runway.

As our turn approached, we discovered we were required to wear a parachute – oh, I had a lot of questions! Why do I need one? How does it work? How do you get out of the cockpit? Had my instructor, Pat Fowler, ever had to use one? The answers were reassuring. The parachute is simply a precaution and we were given clear instructions on how it works. If a quick exit is needed, there is a jettison switch and an easy-release seatbelt. Thankfully, Pat said he had never had to use his parachute, which was a huge relief, as jumping out of any aircraft is definitely not on my bucket list!

Time to fly

When my turn came, Pat was brilliant from start to finish, reassuring me every step of the way. I sat in the front, as Pat took the seat behind me. During the launch, I was concentrating on taking a video but I did feel the sudden lift as I was pushed back in my seat. When he invited me to take the controls, I agreed, although I must admit it was with some trepidation. I followed his instructions carefully and soon found myself looking out to Mablethorpe and the sea beyond as I steered the glider over the countryside. At one point, Pat was actually clapping his hands in the back to prove that I was flying it myself. Wow!

It was an incredible feeling, both exhilarating and peaceful. Gliding silently through the sky, with only the rush of air around us, was so different to being in a plane with engines. When it came to landing, I was more than happy to hand the controls back to Pat. His expertise brought us safely back to the ground, completing an unforgettable experience.

It was fabulous to share such a unique experience with my husband Brian, who also successfully completed the challenge. We're both immensely grateful for all the support we've received. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who sponsored us and helped us raise such a fantastic amount. Your encouragement made all the difference.

Thank you

My sincere thanks to everyone who supported us in any way, to the instructor Pat for his patience, reassurance and expertise, and everyone at the Lincolnshire Gliding Club for their very warm welcome. If anyone’s tempted to try it, I’d say go for it. The club organise times when anyone can go and try it and there are other clubs around the country. Stepping out of my comfort zone and into the cockpit to fly the glider myself is not something I ever imagined I would do. It is an experience I will never forget.

You can watch the video below and see it for yourself or scroll for more photos.
Diana

Watch the video below

How you can help

Everything we provide exists only because of the generosity of people who believe in our work. If you’re able to support this challenge, every donation will help us continue being here for those who need us.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure, and GiftAid makes your donation go even further. Thank you so much for your support!