A Portlaoise woman will celebrate her 60th birthday on Saturday, March 30, with a real adrenaline rush – a tandem skydive to raise funds for Kolbe Special School.
Sheila Parker from Beladd decided last September that she was going to mark her 60th on Easter Saturday with a tandem skydive at the Irish Parachute Club in Clonbullogue.
Sheila has been a bus escort in the school for the last four years so Kolbe Special School is very close to her heart.
“In the middle of February, I came up with the idea of doing the skydive as a fundraiser for Kolbe special school where I have been a bus escort for the past four years. I work on the Portarlington route, looking after six children,” says Sheila.
“I have never done anything like this before. I have helped out with collections for guide dogs and am a volunteer on Daffodil Day but have never done any solo fundraisers. I’d usually be in the background.
“Some people thought I was mad to do a skydive,” laughs Sheila. “My elder daughter, Joanne, had done a skydive when she was travelling and she was very encouraging.
“My other daughter, April, and son, James, were also very supportive. My husband, John, was speechless.”
Sheila is thrilled with the response to date. “Joanne set up an iDonate page for me so that people can donate online, and I am also accepting donations.
“Already €2,500 has been raised for Kolbe which is way more than I had set for my target.
“The principal of Kolbe, Orlagh Mahon, said they would love to use the money for something in the sensory room in the new building which we hope will be ready by September 2025.
“We hope to use the money to buy an interactive wall which all 45 children in the school will be able to enjoy.”
Sheila is undaunted about the challenge at present but laughs that she might change her tune on the day.
She said: “There is no advance training but there will be instruction on the morning of the skydive. I will be one of 14 doing a tandem skydive that day.”
After coming back down to earth, she will celebrate her big birthday with a family meal in Kinnitty Castle.
Fair play Sheila! Anyone who wishes to make a donation can do so here.
