SKYDIVE: Marie O'Sullivan, Lauren Fitzell and Stephanie Horan are aiming for the sky for Recovery Haven on Sunday, April 5. Photo: Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

Three brave women are planning to jump 13,000 feet out of a plane - all in aid of a Kerry charity.

The dive, which was originally scheduled for today (Sunday), has now been postponed due to Storm Jorge – however, the girls are still ready for the big challenge on Sunday, April 5.

Marie O'Sullivan, Stephanie Horan and Lauren Fitzell are amongst 87 people from across Kerry who will take the leap of faith at the Irish Parachute Club in Edenderry over three days for Recovery Haven’s biggest ever fundraisers to date.

The charity, celebrating 10 years this year, has been completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for their inaugural skydive event, which was initially supposed to take place on Leap Year day, February 29, but was extended to three days due to phenomenal demand.

Marie, who is a Slimming World consultant in Killarney, roped in two members for the thrilling adventure.

“We’ve never done a skydive before,” Marie, who lost six stone, told the Killarney Advertiser this week.

“When this popped up the pull for me was huge. I always wanted to do a skydive but couldn’t as I was obese for years.”

Marie was aged eleven when her mom passed away from cancer. It had a huge impact on her life leading to a life of weight issues.

“The weight held me back my whole life. I had no confidence and was embarrassed because of my size. My mom died aged 42, the age I am now. Recovery Haven is close to my heart and I’m more than delighted to do it.”

In total the girls have raised a whopping €5,400 in just three weeks.

Marie raised €2,200, Stephanie €1,800 and Lauren €1,400.

For Stephanie, who is a teacher in St Brigid’s Killarney, the challenge is huge but worth it.

“I had a family member who passed away from cancer and a family member currently availing of the RH service. I can’t say enough about them.”

Lauren, who lost five stone, added that it’s a chance to give something back.