A brain tumour patient whose mum has also been diagnosed with the disease reached new heights with her fundraising when she took to the skies to help find a cure.
Abrica Bennett was 13 when she underwent surgery for a grade 4 medulloblastoma in October 2004. She was placed in an induced coma after the operation and had to learn to walk and talk again.
After seven weeks of radiotherapy, 12 months of chemotherapy and years of clear scans, Abrica was fully discharged in 2012.
Last November, Abrica was dealt a devastating blow when her mum, Jacqueline Blowers, was diagnosed with a glioblastoma (GBM). Jacqueline is currently undergoing treatment for the disease.
Inspired by her mum, Abrica braved a skydive from around 12,000ft which included around 40 seconds of freefalling. Her high-flying fundraising has reached more than £4,000.
During her jump, Abrica experienced a rare weather phenomenon known as cloud iridescence or rainbow cloud. She said: “When I looked it up afterwards, I learned that it’s a symbol of hope and positivity which seemed apt considering I was jumping for Mum.”
Having had “such a great experience” Abrica now hopes to do another skydive. She added: “Now I want to do all I can to help raise awareness of this disease and the lack of investment in research. I was hoping to get over the £1,000 mark so I’m very happy with what I’ve raised.”
To support Abrica’s fundraising, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/skydivingabrica-bennett.