It was a high-flying double act when Pippa Roberts and her Corinium live-in carer Viorica Boitor raised almost £4,000 with a charity parachute jump.Viorica did the 15,000ft tandem jump, whilst Pippa badgered friends and relatives for sponsorship.
Their aim: to support the Wessex Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre in Warminster where Pippa receives regular therapy.
Pippa, 65, from Downton, near Salisbury has suffered from primary progressive multiple sclerosis for 30 years.
"I go to the therapy centre every week - it's essential in helping me to keep mobile and able to function in my home environment. As the NHS cannot support this kind of service on a regular basis, the weekly physiotherapy is extremely important. Helping to raise some money was an opportunity to do my bit for the centre," she said.
"I’m proud that we made £3,800. I’ve been busy on the telephone, writing to people, going up and down the street knocking on doors and badgering friends and relations."
Viorica, 40, a carer with Corinium Care since 2008, was born in Romania and has been with Pippa for more than two years.
"The MS centre is really important for people like Pippa whose ability to walk changes from one day to another. This jump was a small contribution I could make to help ensure it survives, and it was an enjoyable project that Pippa and I could do together."
The jump took place in Devon. "The first minute was in freefall which was quite frightening. But as soon as the parachute opened it was an absolutely unforgettable experience," said Viorica.
The Managing Director of Corinium Care, Camilla Miles, who sponsored Viorica, said: “Viorica is an excellent carer and her willingness to go the extra 15,000 ft to support Pippa is admirable."
Anyone who wants to add to the fundraising total can send a cheque, payable to the Wessex MS Therapy Centre, to Mrs Roberts at Minton Cottage, 20 The Borough, Downton SP5 3ND.