Enter tandem skydiving. Tandem skydiving is basically the best invention ever known to mankind. You are strapped to an experienced skydiver, and you get the thrill for free.

Great. The conundrum was solved. The possibility of me jumping out of a plane seemed realistic. There was hope.

After I moved to Seattle for work, I decided that I needed to take the step. There was still some fear, but what fun is it without that fear? I had a friend who was interested as well, so I had some company. Since my mom stays with me in the summer and fall months (which is the only time Seattle weather permits skydiving), all 3 of us would do it. Yes, my mom too. I got my daredevil attitude from her, so you can say it runs in the family.

2017 passed. 2018 passed. Work has a tendency to keep you busy and make you forget about the things you want to do. Days pass slowly, but years pass before you know it.

2019 came around, and it had to be done this year. Let’s make it a new year resolution. Turned out to be a good move in hindsight because a bunch of proteins lumped together basically canceled 2020 and forced us to live like hermits.

Summer in 2019 was however, a disaster. It was one of those Seattle summers that happens every few years where the clouds decide not to take their summer vacation and decide to party with you. Although temperatures were still ok, we had rainy days and overcast days. Big no no for skydiving.

Weather forecasts were analyzed. And we finally picked Thursday, August 29 because it was forecast to be one of the sunniest days that week. Tickets were booked, money was paid. The week rolls around and starts off bright and sunny. Yay.

Thursday turned out to be cloudy and overcast with the sun peeping through every now and then. Classic Seattle.

And oh, before you ask. Yes, I did plenty of research before even paying for the tickets. I asked my orthopaedician who medically cleared me provided that necessary equipment was supplied. My physical therapist had the same opinion. I asked others in the disabled community and there were other people like me who have the same condition and did skydiving.

Yes, the risks were greater due to weaker bones and yada yada yada. But YOLO. Carpe diem. It was time to jump. 🪂