jump for joy!

Many scientists are optimistic that we're on the cusp of age breakthroughs. Not only to help us live longer, but - more importantly - to extend the number of years we live with good health.
With that in mind, I was a financial backer for Ed Marshall’s recent celebration wherein he raised money for Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital by jumping out of a airplane and parachuting to the ground. He did this to commemorate his 100th birthday! At the completion of his jump, the 100 year old Mr. Marshall said, referring to the parachute itself, “Thank God it opened!” Apparently he showed no nerves, but did state he doesn't plan to do it again.
            Meanwhile, donors have already raised more than Ed’s original goal of $100,000: “$1,000 for each year of my life!”
             Now, I thought that was pretty impressive (and it certainly gave me ideas of what to do to celebrate my 100th birthday one day). But, not to take anything away from Ed, I’ve just learned about a woman, Manette Baillie, who’s become the oldest skydiver in Britain after she jumped out of a plane at age 102. When asked about this momentous occasion, the 102-year-old said, “I just want other people who are getting towards 80 and 90 not to give up anything. Just keep going.” Like Ed Marshall, Manette is using this feat to raise money for a series of UK-based charities.
             BTW, it’s not the first time she’s attempted extreme events at an advanced age. Two years ago, just ahead of her 100th birthday, she drove around the U.K.’s famed Silverstone racetrack, reaching speeds as high as 130 mph. When asked what’s next, Manette said this would likely be her final fundraising challenge, adding about her new goal: "I shall be taking up knitting!"

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