Portlaoise woman takes to the skies to raise funds for Kolbe Special School

Portlaoise woman Sheila Parker will not only celebrate a special birthday this Easter but she is also embarking on a skydive to raise much needed funds for Kolbe Special School. 

On Easter Sunday Sheila will turn 60 and to mark the occasion she will take to the skies to fundraise for a cause very close to her heart. 

For the last year she has worked as the bus escort for Kolbe Special School, a job she thoroughly enjoys and describes the children as her 'second family'.

The former pediatric nurse is eager to raise as much as she can and has already surpassed her target of €500.

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Sheila said the money will go towards the equipment and infrastructure needed for the sensory or occupation therapy rooms for the school once its long awaited new building is constructed.  

"Last year I decided to do a skydive and I booked it last September. I had only told my kids about it and then two weeks ago I got brave and decided to do it for charity," said Sheila.  

"I'm usually a quiet person but I thought if this raises a few pound for Kolbe then all well and good. Every euro counts. 

"Kolbe is the last to get any money or support and they are always fighting. I'm doing this for the parents, to give something back. It is such a lovely place to work."

Looking ahead to the big jump on March 30 Sheila said she will likely be nervous on the day but husband John and children Joanne, April and James will be cheering her on.

 
If you would like to make a donation you can do so online at www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/SheilaParker.