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Kat Watson-Wood has been a Christie patient since she was very young. Just 2 days after her 4th birthday, Kat was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour. She had surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible, followed by radiotherapy.
After Kat’s treatment, her cancer went into remission, but she was left with some ongoing mobility issues, hormonal problems, muscle tightness and some cognitive difficulties. She now has continuing treatment at The Christie for her additional issues. Kat is incredibly positive about her experience at The Christie and she was even inspired by her healthcare team to train as a nurse herself.
During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, Kat said she began to realise the enormity of what she went through during her childhood cancer treatment. She decided she wanted to show her gratitude and give back to The Christie for the care she’s had as a late-effects in adulthood patient.
To say thanks for her treatment at The Christie, Kat decided to take on The Christie Skydive for The Christie Charity. On Saturday 18 May 2024, Kat and a band of other brave team Christie supporters jumped out of a plane at 15,000 feet to raise funds in support of cancer patients and their loved ones.
Kat said the skydive was completely out of her comfort zone but that she found the fundraising for the jump easy, as she had so much love and support from her friends and family. She said she got more excited the closer she got to the weekend of the skydive and although she was also nervous, she was more excited to have the opportunity to give back to such an amazing cause.
On the day of The Christie Skydive, Kat suited up and practiced her landing position in the skydive training room. She got on the plane – with a little help from a quad bike, due to her mobility issues – along with 3 other skydivers, each with an instructor and a photographer.
“We edged forward on the bench and onto the floor until my bottom was in mid-air. There wasn't time to even think and we were out! Falling... like one of those dreams where you fall forever. All I remember thinking was that I was about to lose my shoe at 15,000 feet! The rush of air in my face took my breath away. I felt so free and carefree; like nothing else mattered.
“I was suddenly whipped back as the instructor opened the chute. Trying to drink in as much of the experience as I could, I was amazed at the beauty and how at peace I felt.
“We were getting closer to the ground. The instructor told me to get in position and we came to a graceful stop with a 'thud' and a mouth full of grass! My legs were jelly. I could feel tears rolling down my cheeks. I'd done it! I'd conquered my fear of heights and done something I thought that I'd never have the guts to do whilst raising money for the cause that saved my life!
“We couldn't have wished for a more perfect day and the other people that jumped were lovely, with some amazing stories.
