July 09, 2024 - 532 views
David Whieldon’s daughter Megs died in March 2022 aged 10 and had attended Tŷ Gobaith for therapy sessions having lived with complex medical needs.
After her death, the Whieldon family were able to access specialist facilities at the hospice to allow them to spend time with Megs, saying goodbye in their own way.
On the 25th July, David and 10 other brave flyers will be coming together at RFC Rendcombe, Cirencester to stand atop an aeroplane and be whisked through the skies at speeds of up to 140mph..
He said: “After Megs passed away they gave us the gift of time in their Snowflake Suite to say our final goodbyes to Megs and prepare for a life without our little ray of sunshine.
“Over the phone they said: ‘We're here for you, we'll take care of you now.’
“We are forever grateful for their kindness and compassion. They held our family up and guided us through the darkest days.”
Megs loved music, and American singer Jojo Siwa was her favourite artist. She especially enjoyed the song Every Girl’s a Supergirl.
David continued: “In her honour, and because I know it would give her the biggest laugh, I will be doing the wing walk dressed as Jojo with as much sequins, rainbows and diamante as possible. And of course a trademark bow.
“As her Dad I was always there to look after her and hold her hand, and I hope when they strap me to that plane she'll be holding my hand looking after me and probably laughing at me dressed in my tutu, glitter and sequins.”
Looking ahead to the event, David said: “It's been a while since I've done anything this extreme, when you're a dad you rarely have the time.
“Sky diving in New Zealand just before Megs was born was probably my last adrenaline rush so I am definitely looking forward to this one.”
In Memory fundraiser for Hope House Tŷ Gobaith, Laura Ellis-Bartlett, who has assisted the family said: “David, Sue and Dan have been so incredibly strong and we are happy to have been able to support them on their journey.
“It’s really touching when families feel able to support us too with fundraising.
“We’re all so proud of David for taking on the wing walk as a tribute to Megs, especially in fancy dress!
“Good luck to the whole team on the day.”
The Whieldon family and friends have held several fundraising events for Tŷ Gobaih and even have a special tribute page to Megs which has raised in excess of £14,000.
