Sky not the limit for free-fall fundraising family (From Western Telegraph)

Keeston's Alex in 10,000-foot skydive for Dementia UK

12:50pm Monday 7th November 2011 in News

Any son would go the distance for his mother, but for one man, the sky is definitely not the limit.

Alex Payne, of Keeston, and his family tested their nerves yesterday (Sunday), when they undertook a 10,000-foot skydive, to raise money for Dementia UK.

Alex’s mother Sue, aged 64, of Llanthewy, Newport, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s three years ago.

The news hit the family hard, and Alex, his father John, brother Nick, and son Levi Hobby, decided they will free-fall from 10,000 feet to raise £5,000 for the charity.

Alex said: "When my mum was diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s, it was a big thing for our family to deal with.

"We felt so helpless, like we couldn’t do anything to help. So we set up the skydive, and the whole family decided to get involved.

"We all support my mum when we can, but we want to do more.

"We want to raise money for the people who care for my mum and dad, but also raise awareness of this charity for those who find themselves in the same situation.

"It’s a small gesture, but it's important to us."

Along with the Payne family, family friends Liza Fox-Fitzgerald and Liz Moore will also undertake the challenge.

The group started raising money in June, and have raised just over £4,000 so far, just short of their £5,000 target.

Alex, who runs his own garden landscaping business naturals, added: "People’s generosity has been amazing, we are grateful to everyone who has donated."

To support the Payne family visit www.justgiving.com/paynegroupskydive.