Daniel Rowe has raised £1,075 for Plymouth Hospitals Charity by taking part in a tandem skydive.

Despite his fear of heights, 16-year-old Daniel took the 15,000ft leap from a moving plane to raise money for the Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre at Derriford Hospital . The skydive was a birthday present for Daniel and he decided to use the opportunity to raise money for the Mustard Tree on behalf of his friend, Kayleigh Eve.

Kayleigh found a lump in her breast in July 2017 and at just 29-years-old, she was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. After a successful operation to remove the cancerous lump, Kayleigh embarked on her treatment journey of 15 rounds of radiotherapy.

“Although this time was incredibly tough, I remained positive and started every day with a smile,” said Kayleigh.

“I could not have gone through this tough and challenging time without the help of the Mustard Tree. Whether it was the offer of a cup of tea after I finished my treatment or just a little chat and a few words of encouragement; they were amazing.”

During her 12 month check-up in August 2018, pre-cancerous cells were found in Kayleigh’s other breast. This meant further surgery, and 15 more sessions of radiotherapy which she completed in January.

“I have now become an advocate for young people who are affected by cancer and I’m working very closely with the Mustard Tree to ensure that this is supported.

“When you are diagnosed with cancer, the physical aspects of having this disease are much easier to deal with than the emotional implications.

“All of this was made so much easier thanks to the support of the staff and resources at the Mustard Tree. They offer a safe, non-clinical place to sit and think, make friends or just sit and talk. They have helped me enormously in my journey and I want to thank them in any way I can.

“I want to say a huge thank you to Daniel for offering to do this skydive while raising money for the Mustard Tree. It will make such a difference to cancer patients and their families. On behalf of all the wonderful friends that I have made on this journey I want to say thank you to Daniel for being such a selfless, brave man.”