They were among a team of 13 set to take on the challenge, but changing weather conditions meant the remaining 11 skydivers were unable to jump on the day. Their challenge is far from over, however, with the rest of Team Diagrama ready to take to the skies on a new date.
The Diagrama Charity Skydive 2026 took place at Headcorn Aerodrome in Kent on Friday 18 September, with 13 members of the team aiming to raise £25,000 to support vulnerable children and adults across Diagrama Foundation’s services.
However, changing weather conditions meant that only two members of the team, Care Assistant Samyuktha and Registered Nurse Kaushila from Edensor Care Centre in Clacton, were able to complete their jumps.
The remaining team members were waiting in the take-off zone when weather conditions deteriorated and their jumps were cancelled. They will now have another opportunity to complete the skydives later this year.
For Samyuktha, known as Sam, the jump was particularly significant as she had previously spoken about her fear of heights.
Reflecting on the experience, she said: “I was very scared before getting on the flight. When we were getting ready to jump, I closed my eyes because I was nervous. After the jump, I opened my eyes and saw the beautiful sky around me.
“The free fall was amazing. When the parachute opened, it was even more beautiful. Looking down and seeing the earth from above was an amazing experience.
“I was very scared at first, but I’m so happy I did it. It was a beautiful and unforgettable experience.”
The Diagrama Charity Skydive was originally the idea of Graham, a resident at Duckyls Farm Cottage, one of Diagrama Foundation’s residential services for adults with learning disabilities.
Wanting to give something back to the charity that has transformed his life, Graham suggested the challenge as a way of raising money to create more opportunities for other people supported by Diagrama.
The team is aiming to raise £25,000, with funds helping to provide life-enriching opportunities for vulnerable children and adults.
Money raised will support projects including accessible learning spaces, sensory and wellbeing resources, enrichment activities, therapeutic support and outdoor learning opportunities.
David McGuire, Chief Executive of Diagrama Foundation, said: “We are incredibly proud of Sam and Kaushila for completing their jumps.
“Unfortunately, the weather meant that the rest of the team could not jump but this is not the end of their challenge they will have another opportunity to take to the skies later this year.
“What has been fantastic throughout this challenge is the determination of everyone involved. They are pushing themselves to do something extraordinary so that the people supported by Diagrama can have more opportunities to learn, develop, build confidence and enjoy life-enriching experiences.
“We are hugely grateful to everyone who has supported the team so far.”
The charity is encouraging local people, businesses and community groups to support the skydive team with a donation or by sharing their fundraising efforts.
To support the Diagrama Charity Skydive 2026 team, visit:
www.justgiving.com/campaign/diagramacharityskydive
Every donation will help Diagrama create opportunities for vulnerable children and adults to learn, develop their independence, build confidence and enjoy experiences that enrich their lives.
For more information Edensor Care centre visit www.diagramafoundation.org.uk/senior-dementia-care/edensorcarehomeclacton