Dad takes on 10,000ft skydive in aid of "amazing" local charity which helped son

Monday 10 July 2023

A local dad is taking on a charity skydive later this month in support of an "amazing" charity which has provided one-on-one support for his autistic son, allowing him to "thrive in mainstream education".

On 23 July, dad John Le Cornu and his friend Aidan Lever will take to the sky to complete a 10,000ft tandem skydive in aid of Jersey Child Care Trust.

John has previously completed a skydive once before in Las Vegas, which he described as "the most terrifying but exhilarating thing I've ever done".

He explained taking on a second skydive is a "personal challenge" for him.

"It really is an intimidating thing for me to do again now I know what's coming!" said John.

"It's also one of the best possible ways to see Jersey and a real bucket list experience."

John explained that his decision to raise money for Jersey Child Care Trust came from his own personal experience with the local charity.

He said: "Our three-year-old son has autism and, thanks to the support of the Jersey Child Care Trust, he is not just surviving in mainstream education but is thriving.

"The Jersey Child Care Trust have enabled him to have one-on-one support from an early age which enables him to truly have the best possible start to his education."

John added: "It costs on average £3,300 per child per year for this support and I wanted to help another child to benefit in the same way that he has.

"Jersey Child Care Trust are currently helping approx 170 children but there are so many more that need support."

John admitted that, prior to his son's autism diagnosis, he knew nothing about the Jersey Child Care Trust.

However, now, John said: "Having seen the amazing support they provide, I want to raise as much awareness as I can for this worthy charity.

"If more people know what they are all about, it can only help the children they are there for."

John added that he feels "apprehensive but excited" about the skydive.

He said: "I've got a good mate Aidan Lever doing it with me for some moral support, so hoping for clear skies and a soft landing!"

You can donate to John's JustGiving page HERE, and Aidan's JustGiving page HERE.