Mum to brave skydive in memory of her brother

Abigail Conners, 39, from Wakefield, will take the leap over Bridlington on Saturday, June 24, to raise money for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), which came to the aid of her sibling Michael Massey.

Mr Massey, aged 43 at the time, was travelling to his home in Leeds when his car collided with a van on the A1, near Alnwick, in February 2015.

He suffered multiple injuries including a damaged brain stem. GNAAS attended the scene and he was anaesthetised by the GNAAS doctor and administered blood on the roadside.

He was airlifted to Newcastle RVI in 12 minutes, but died from his injuries the following day.

Mrs Conners, a mother-of two, said: “Our family went up to be by his side and we got to say our goodbyes. We were all so thankful to be given the opportunity to see him.

“Michael was a hard-working family man, who would do anything for anyone, especially his children Jake, 21, and Leah, 20.”

Mrs Conners, an accounting assistant, is now paying thanks to the charity by taking part in the sponsored freefall later this year, alongside friend and colleague Sarah Powala.

She added: “I’ve never done anything like this before. I’m really nervous, but I’m excited too. I’ve had a very encouraging response, some people think I’m crazy but others say I’m going to love it.

“My daughters Mia, eight, and Molly, six, are so excited that their mummy is jumping out of a plane.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the beautiful views of the East Yorkshire coast, and as it’s in June hopefully the weather will be lovely.

“I’m so grateful to GNAAS for trying to save Michael’s life. His injuries were too severe but they did all they could, and it gave us the chance to be with Michael. GNAAS provide an amazing service to so many people and it blows my mind that they are reliant on charity.

“I hope Michael will be watching over me on the day, feeling proud.”

Donations for Mrs Conners’ skydive can be made on her JustGiving page.