A FEARLESS fundraiser is set to take to the skies this June as she leaps out of an airplane at 10,000ft to raise cash for Brighter Futures.

Mum-of-two Gemma Smith, who celebrates her 30th birthday next week, will take on the challenge of a lifetime for a cause that is particularly close to her heart.

Gemma, who lives in Oakhurst, recently lost a loved one to cancer and she understands the stress the drive to Oxford puts on families and would like to help others.

She said: “I’m doing it because I lost my uncle to cancer and I wanted to do something special as a way of remembering him and of raising money for Brighter Futures.

“This year will be the five year anniversary since he died, so I felt it was the right time to do something.”

Gemma’s grandma also suffered with cancer and had to make the arduous journey to Oxford for treatment.

Her uncle, Kevin Cuss, who died at the age of 43, was a big Swindon Town fan - he even had a special Swindon Town FC coffin.

Gemma said: “The reason I chose to support Brighter Futures was because my uncle spent a lot of time in the hospital and my Nan had to travel to Oxford every day for treatment. It was really hard for her and for the family making sure someone could take her there every day.”

And, not content with simply going for a run or a bike ride, Gemma decided to pluck up the courage to do something extreme, something she will never forget.

She said: “I wanted to do something completely out of my comfort zone. I have never done anything like this before and I’m very nervous. The more I think about it the more nervous I get.

“I’m not afraid of heights, but I have never done it before and it’s quite daunting. But I just want to raise as much money as possible.

“The whole of Swindon seems to be behind the radiotherapy appeal and I am confident they will reach their target soon.”

So far £1,500,000 has been raised for Brighter Futures. The team is very grateful for every single donation and wish to thank everyone for their support. To donate you can send cut out and send in the attached form or log on to: www.brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk.