Intrepid fundraiser skydiving for Alzheimer’s Society
‘Nervous would be an understatement’
An intrepid Derry health care worker planning to jump out of a plane 14,000 feet in the air in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society told The Derry News “nervous would be an understatement”.
Nursing assistant Chris Campbell has already raised half of his £500 target with two months to go until his charity skydive on August 2, 2026.
“I decided to do the skydive in aid of Alzheimer’s Society as it is a cause that is very personal to me. My grandad had Alzheimer’s Dementia and I saw at first-hand the impact it had on him and our family,” said Chris.
“I have also had great support from my workplace and many local organisations who have allowed me to promote the fundraiser through posters and QR codes,” he added.
“So, on the day, I arrive at Movenis airfield just outside Garvagh, where Skydive Ireland is based. They check to make sure the weather conditions are grand, then it’s all systems go.
“On the day I will be strapped to a professional skydiver. My brother is coming along to support me but he is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
“It will be quite an experience and, you know what, it is an amazing opportunity. I am so grateful to be able to take part, especially for such a brilliant charity,” said Chris.
Having researched the Alzheimer’s Society, Chris said he was “very impressed” with the charity.
‘My grandad had Alzheimer’s Dementia and I saw at first-hand the impact it had on him and our family’
“It has been running since November 1979 and during that time it has raised more than £116.8 million. I honestly think that is such an amazing achievement.
“I just think it shows how important the charity is to so many people, including the likes of myself.
“I know the charity will continue to grow and receive support for all the incredible people working and supporting Alzheimer's working to do more research for the condition,” said Chris.
Donations can be made to Chris’ JustGiving fundraiser: Chris’s fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society: https://www.justgiving.com/page/chris-skydive-2026?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL.
“I would appreciate it if people could make even a small donation or even share the fundraising link, they don’t have to donate, that would help massively and mean a lot to me and other people,” he said.
The Alzheimer’s Society describes itself as “working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.
“We do this by giving help to those living with dementia today, and providing hope for the future by campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be and funding ground breaking research.”