"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
21 Aug 2024
At 94 years old, David Aris took on the world's fastest zip line, not for the thrill, but to honor the memory of his late wife, June. Five years ago, June passed away from cancer, having spent her final months in the compassionate care of St John's Hospice. This same hospice also provided care for David's dear friend, Mr. Kilby, during his last days. Driven by gratitude and a desire to give back, David embarked on this daring adventure to raise funds for the hospice that meant so much to him and his loved ones.
David, who is 94 years old, and Narelle, the 70-year-old widow of Mr. Kilby, went to Zip World in Penrhyn Quarry, Wales, together to experience the world's fastest zip line, which can reach speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h). The two want to raise funds for the hospice care that supported them during such a difficult time in their life.
(Source: Google Images)
David told the English news outlet SWNS, "I had heard of the zip line but I didn't think to do it until Narelle mentioned it to me." "I told them I was 94 when we called to make a reservation, and they claimed I'm 'possibly the oldest person' to do it. That was confirmed to be accurate when they checked. "It was so fast that day that the zip line was over in less than a minute!" he continued. I felt both anxious and eager. And I had a great time doing it. When June's cancer turned terminal, St. John's provided her with support over the last six months of her life. After a few months of living in the hospice, she and David moved into their own house where June spent the final few weeks of her life under the care of hospice caregivers. Through JustGiving, a crowdsourcing platform, the two elderly individuals have raised almost £9,500!