Gary’s incredible Skydive!

South Powys Mind are delighted to announce that Gary Marsdon has taken on the incredible challenge of jumping out of a plane 15000 feet (that’s around 3 miles!) above the ground. This is the maximum altitude for a tandem skydive in the UK and involves a free fall of around 60 seconds – at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour.

Yep, that’s terrifying. 

Gary’ joked that the birthday ‘gift’ from his husband was payback “for all the times I’ve gently (perhaps sometimes not so gently!) encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone…” but fully embraced the challenge, even upping the distance of the jump. 

Inspired by his own mental health challenges, Gary chose to use the experience to raise funds for South Powys Mind, saying;

I won’t lie, I’m pretty scared! But knowing that this jump will help raise funds for an incredible cause will really help to keep me motivated and make sure I get on (and off!) that plane. That’s why I’m fundraising for South Powys Mind, a fantastic charity supporting people in our local community who are affected by mental health challenges. They also do amazing work to increase understanding and raise awareness. 

Not only did Gary complete the jump – and is that even with a smile on his face? – he smashed his fundraising target and is donating an amazing £1,781 to South Powys Mind, with an additional £1,000 coming in through his employers match-funding foundation. 

From all of us at South Powys Mind, a heartfelt thanks to Gary and to everyone who has supported him, and us. 

P.S. We’re wondering what the return birthday gift is going to look like… 

Posted on: 23rd June 2026