15-05-2025
Newport woman who fears heights completes skydive for dad
Jemma Martin, 25, took the plunge on what would have been dad's birthday to raise funds for the Wales Air Ambulance - the service which was called to help her father, Alan, in August 2020.
Sadly, despite the crew's efforts, Alan passed away.
Ms Martin's skydive raised £1,270 for the charity, and she said she would "100 per cent do it again."
(Image: Jemma Martin)
Ms Martin said: "My dad did not get to do half the stuff he wanted to, because of his diabetes and health problems.
"That's what motivated me to jump out of a plane for a charity which means so much to my family."
Reflecting on the experience, Jemma said: "It was the most terrifying thing I have ever done.
"I was genuinely terrified.
"I was shaking like a leaf but my instructor, Matt, was so amazing and reassured me throughout the whole experience.
"I am so proud of myself, and to make it more special, it was on my dad's 57th birthday."
(Image: Jemma Martin)
Alan Martin, a lorry driver for Tesco, collapsed at the Magor distribution centre in August 2020.
Despite CPR attempts by colleagues and the rapid response from Wales Air Ambulance, Alan could not be revived.
He suffered a blood clot in the main artery to his heart.
Ms Martin added: "I have so much respect for the clinicians who were there for my dad, they did all they could to help him."
Gail Windley, regional fundraising manager for the Wales Air Ambulance, said: "Congratulations to Jemma who faced her fear of heights to raise an incredible amount of money for our charity.
"Not only did Jemma face her fear, but she said she'd do a skydive again.
"It was a lovely way to honour her dad, especially on his birthday.
"We are hugely grateful to Jemma, her mum Jackie and sister Lucy who recently ran Newport 10K for our charity.
"Fundraisers, like Jemma's, will help us continue to provide this 24/7 service for the people of Wales."
