Hi, I’m Joab Elkerton, and this year, I’ve done something a little unexpected for Christmas. I decided to buy my mum, Charmaine, a present that neither of us would have ever imagined giving or receiving: a bungee jump.

Yes, you read that right. On the 15th of June, Charmaine and I will be leaping (or more likely, being gently persuaded to fall) from a height of 40 meters, 130 feet. straight toward the ground. Now here’s the bit is both of us are absolutely terrified of heights. I mean, genuinely scared. Falling from high places is right at the top of my list of fears, and Mum’s not far behind.

When I gave her the gift, I thought she’d either laugh or disown me. Instead, she surprised me with the wisdom to say “If we’re going to suffer, let’s make it meaningful.” That’s when she suggested we turn this terrifying experience into something good for others and raise money for charity.

So here’s what we’re doing: we’re turning our fear into fuel for fundraising.

I’ve chosen to support Samaritans, a charity that offers life-saving emotional support to people in distress. Mum has chosen Dorothy House, a hospice that provides compassionate care for people with life-limiting illnesses. Every donation we raise will be split evenly between the two.

If you’ve ever seen two adults scream their heads off while doing something they’d normally avoid t all costs and hate with a passion, this is your chance to support the cause behind the chaos.

Wish us luck

With shaky legs and determined hearts,

Charmaine & Joab