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Adrenaline junkie jumps from plane for vaccine research

26.08.11

A SELF-CONFESSED adrenaline junkie overcame her nerves to launch herself from a plane in support of life-saving vaccine research.

Michelle Harvey-Jones from Westbury-on-Severn was moved to become a trustee of Meningitis UK after her daughter Katheryn, now 22, survived the potentially deadly brain bug meningitis aged 14 months.

Although the businesswoman rides motorbikes and loves scuba diving, she was admittedly terrified of the thought of the intimidating descent.

HR consultant, Michelle, who runs MHJ (walmore) Ltd, said: "I am an adrenaline junky and I do ride bikes and like adventure, but I have never liked flying in planes - so to jump out of one was a huge personal challenge.

"I hadn't slept well the night before the jump and when I got to the airfield at South Cirencester, I thought, 'I can't do this'.

"But then I talked to the camera guy and he did a brilliant job of reassuring me. I calmed down and I was ready to go.

"It was just the most amazing buzz of my entire life and I would do it again today if I could."

The weather closed in at one point and the jump was put on hold for an hour and a half, but as soon as the sun came out Michelle was up in the air at 12,000 feet.

So far, she has raised £1,285 and is hoping to take the total to around £1,500.

Meningitis UK's sole aim is to find preventative vaccines to eradicate against all forms of meningitis and associated diseases.

Chief executive Steve Dayman, who lost his son Spencer to meningitis, said: "Michelle became a trustee for Meningitis UK in June and I am delighted she is throwing herself into fundraising for us as well. Jumping out of a plane is no mean feat and we are extremely grateful for the money Michelle has raised.

"Fortunately Michelle's daughter has recovered from meningitis but there are many people who are not so lucky and lose their lives to this devastating disease each year.

"That is why here at Meningitis UK we believe that the only way to completely stamp out this cruel disease is with a preventative vaccine."

To sponsor Michelle, visit: www.justgiving.com/michelle-harvey-jones or for more information about Meningitis UK or to donate to the charity call 0117 947 63 20 or visit www.meningitisuk.org