Fearless Connie marks her 90th birthday by taking to the skies
MANY WOMEN marking their 90th birthday would do nothing more strenuous than throw a gentle family party or a drive in the country.
Not Connie Smith. She ticked an item off her bucket list – by going paragliding all in the name of charity. Fearless Mrs Smith took to the skies in southern Spain in aid of her favourite pet charity, PDSA.
She had been hoping to go wing-walking but she exceeded the age limit of 75.
Mrs Smith, of Grantham, Lincolnshire, was supported by her son Pete and her daughterin-law Jane, who both live in Spain.
She said: “Everyone thought I was completely mad, but it was an absolutely fantastic experience. I enjoyed every second. I didn’t feel scared at all, I just took in the beautiful scenery around me.”
Mrs Smith said she had started supporting PDSA when she was seven years old and is hoping to raise £250 from her paragliding attempt.
She continued: “I’m a big animal lover and have always supported PDSA. I have a cat and know how important pets are, particularly as you get older.”
Rosie Gibbons, fundraiser at PDSA, which will celebrate its 100th birthday on November 17, said: “Connie is a true inspiration – her bravery is truly remarkable.
“We are incredibly grateful to Connie for going above and beyond to raise money for sick and injured pets.”
The PDSA – the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals – is a veterinary charity founded in 1917 by Maria Dickin to provide care for sick and injured animals of the poor. It is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, carrying out 1m free veterinary consultations a year.
I didn’t feel scared at all, I just took in the beautiful scenery. Connie Smith on paragliding on her 90th birthday.