Challenging yourself for the DPT Charity: Zoe and Paul took the plunge!

Posted by Devon Partnership Trust in Charity, News on 2nd August, 2024

Two of our adventurous colleagues recently stepped out of their comfort zones in spectacular ways to raise funds for our DPT Charity.

Zoe's high-flying adventure

Zoe took on the dizzying heights of Velocity, the world's fastest zip line, located in Penrhyn Quarry, North Wales. Describing her experience, Zoe Fischer, Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor at Franklyn Hospital in Exeter said: "It was terrifying for a second, and then you feel like you’re flying and don’t want it to end! I’m always looking for new challenges, and if anyone has suggestions, please send them my way."

Zoe doesn’t want to stop there. She and her adventure-loving friend are planning to scale some of the world's highest chimneys in the Czech Republic next summer. Her passion for taking on these challenges stems not only from a desire to push her own limits but also from commitment to help the NHS go further. She said: "I enjoy doing challenges for the DPT charity as it’s a way of finding a new way to challenge myself. We use the funds raised to support animal therapies at Franklyn, and I see the positive effect it has on staff and patients."

Paul's skydiving thrill

Paul Jetten (Operational Service Manager for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMHS) Pathways) another brave supporter, took fundraising to new heights—literally. He recently completed a 15,000ft tandem skydive with Skydive Buzz at Dunkeswell Airfield in Honiton. This exhilarating leap was part of a campaign to raise funds for CAMHS.

Reflecting on his experience, Paul said: "This has been something on my bucket-list for a long time and it was great to be able to do this while raising money for the DPT Charity because I believe in the importance of the services they provide, especially for young people through CAMHS. It’s a weird experience to barrel roll out of a plane, and the freefall was literally breath-taking – you have to work out how to breathe while plummeting 2 miles in 60 seconds, but then when the chute opens, the view is just incredible and so peaceful. I would encourage others to take part in the amazing array of fundraising opportunities through DPT charity, knowing that what you’re doing goes to a brilliant cause."

Join the challenge!

Inspired by Zoe and Paul? You too can make a difference! Whether you like daring challenges or prefer a more grounded challenge, there's a way for everyone to get involved and support the DPT Charity. From marathons to bake sales, or even something as bold as a zip line or skydive, your effort can help us continue to enhance the lives of those that our organisation supports.

For more information or to discuss fundraising ideas please email Daniel Robson, Head of Charity Fundraising at daniel.robson3@nhs.net.