Penny Watson is stepping out of her comfort zone to take part in a tandem skydive to help raise funds for Sheffield Hospitals Charity in memory of her Mum who died in 2018.

West Yorkshire based Penny is completing the 15000ft skydive with all proceeds going to the Brearley Wards at the Northern General Hospital.

Penny’s Mum, Patricia, received treatment and care on Brearley Ward 4 before she passed away after a three-year battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The department provide respiratory support to patients with lung disease.

To help Sheffield Hospitals Charity (SHC) and the work that they do, Penny will be taking to the skies of Hilbaldstow, North Lincolnshire, on April 24 to complete her skydive.

Penny is aiming to raise £700 and said: “In my Mum’s final days she was supported by the staff on Brearley Ward 4 with the upmost respect and care where they made her feel comfortable before she went home to be at peace – this is something I will be eternally grateful for.

“My Mum was afraid of heights so by jumping out of a plane I will be able to feel close to her again and I know that she would be extremely proud.

“To say thank you to the staff on all of the Brearley Wards I wanted to do something to contribute to the work that they do so that they can continue to offer care, support and lifesaving treatment.”

The Brearley Wards at Northern General Hospital are managed by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The ward specialises in respiratory medicine caring for a number of patients including those with lung cancer, asthma, bronchiectasis, pulmonary embolism and tuberculosis.

SHC Community Fundraiser Kimberley France, said: “At Sheffield Hospitals Charity we are always pleased to hear of inspirational stories like Penny’s where people want to give something back to the charity and help others.

“Penny’s efforts will go towards ensuring that respiratory patients continue to receive exceptional care and support on the Brearley Wards, and we wish her the best of luck in her leap of faith.”

For more information on how you can support Penny or to make a donation, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Pennywatson81 or sign up to skydive here.