74-YEAR old Westbury local Duncan Baxter, who lives with dementia, completed a 10,000ft tandem skydive last Sunday in order to raise funds and awareness for the disease.
The jump included 30 seconds of free-fall where he flew through the air at speeds up to 125 mph. Retired policeman Duncan was part of a team of jumpers called Duncan’s Divers, which includes family and friends. They completed their skydive for dementia at Old Sarum Airfield on September 26 in aid of Alzheimer’s Support.
The keen bowler has raised £2,500 so far. Duncan says: “I’ve been signed off by my GP which is good, but of course I was a bit nervous.
“Whenever I go to a different bowls club I bring my sponsor form and just let people know. I’ve told people in restaurants and wherever I go because I want to raise as much as I possibly can. Everyone is generous and when I tell them what a fantastic place Alzheimer’s Support’s Old Silk Works Day Club is they want to help.”
Duncan was diagnosed with dementia two years ago, but didn’t seek help at first because he was scared, but has now attends the charity’s day club in Warminster.
He said: “I knew what dementia could look like and that wasn’t me. So it was easier not to do much about it.
“But when I came to the club I was treated with such understanding and kindness. I saw others who were much further along and they were treated the same and realised there wasn’t anything to be frightened of. I have never felt so comfortable in my life and couldn’t be happier. I really look forward to coming. The love bounces off the walls at the Old Silk Works.”
To find out more about Alzheimer’s Support’s Skydive for Dementia visit, www.alzheimerswiltshire.org.uk/Event/skydive-for-dementia
