Betty jumps at chance to help
A Nelson octogenarian is taking her support for a local charity sky-high, so long as the price is right.
Betty Van Rooyen has dedicated the last 15 years of her life to volunteering for community patrols and more recently for the Nelson Cancer Society.
‘‘When I retired I wanted to do something useful and this, to me, is the most worthwhile cause,’’ she said.
‘‘[Cancer]’s such an evil thing and I want to help people get through it – it’s a horrible disease, but there is a lot of hope for people, that’s the good news.’’
However, Van Rooyen’s willingness to help others was put to the test recently when she was approached by Cancer Society Nelson manager Michelle Hunt to be one of a select few to skydive as a fundraising effort.
‘‘I don’t feel the need to jump out of a plane – I’m only doing it to raise funds – I certainly wouldn’t be doing it for myself,’’ Van Rooyen said.
‘‘It wasn’t a shoulder-tap, it was more a twisting of the wrist – she’s a very persuasive lady.’’
While the 80-year-old has pre- viously tried gliding, ballooning and taken a trip in a Tiger Moth plane, this will be her first time parachuting.
‘‘I’ve always stayed in the plane – the sensible thing.’’
Before the jump can take place at Motueka Aerodrome, Van Rooyen must raise $1000.
She is hoping to gain some support at the Trade Central Cancer Society Annual Charity Ball this weekend and through Facebook .
‘‘I haven’t got that in my back pocket – it’s all depending on the generosity of others,’’ she said.
Any one wanting to help Betty reach her target can visit http:/ /www.everydayhero.co.nz/event/ JumpforCancerNelson.
Also there will be a bucket to ‘‘Help Betty jump’’ at the reception desk at the Cancer Society office at 102 Hardy St.