Kicking things off this month, I had the pleasure of being invited to speak on a panel at an event held by Nottingham Trent University in conjunction with the National Law Society. I love doing these sorts of events, imparting my (limited) wisdom and learnings to the next generation. The students came armed with brilliant questions and even challenged me to reflect on my journey in ways I hadn’t before. It was a really heartening afternoon and I hope the students left feeling inspired - or at least enjoyed the complimentary refreshments.
Next up this month, I spent the afternoon at Langar Airfield with the ground hurtling towards me at an alarming speed. Yes, I took part in THE charity skydive, with my fellow friends and colleagues – Drew Dennis, Aldi Hoad, charity ambassador, Debbi Marlow, and my fiancé, Simon. We were treated to the most perfect of skies and arrived full of trepidation.
First up, Debbi courageously volunteered to go first. We watched her gracefully glide in with her parachute, full of smiles, firmly declaring “that was amazing!” which was hugely reassuring as I was becoming more anxious. Next up, it was me and Simon. After our safety briefing, we flew up to 14,000 ft. I was last out the plane and as I was sat with my legs dangling out the door, there really was only one way down. My tandem skydiver gave me a shove and we fell head-first towards the ground.
After about 45 seconds or so (although it felt like much longer), the parachute was released and all went quiet with a moment or two to enjoy the view - whilst I desperately tried to quell the feeling of nausea that was brewing. I safely touched down to the ground only to be greeted by videographers who captured me in my finest shade of green, while asking whether I had enjoyed it. “I don’t know!” was my honest answer, and I still don’t!
Drew and Aldi headed up next. I sat with my feet firmly on the ground, with my salt and vinegar crisps trying settle my stomach. We watched them overhead but then spotted a parachute which did not seem to be doing what it should be. We nervously waited until it became apparent that the parachute was empty and our two final skydivers safely touched the ground. What it turned out had happened was that Aldi’s first parachute had failed and her reserve had had to be deployed – which only happens in about 1 in every 5000 jumps!
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So, would I do it again. Nope, absolutely not. But, I am over the moon to see all the money we have raised for my amazing charity this year – Harmless and the Tomorrow Project. It is not too late to donate!
After the adrenaline rush of skydiving, what better way to recalibrate was there than with the annual John Pearce Quiz? With a record-breaking 56 teams in attendance, the competition was fierce, the questions were tricky, and the debates were intense. Did my team win? Well, let’s just say we had a great time…
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Our next big event will be the Annual Dinner! I can’t believe we at this time of the year already! The time has flown but final preparations are well underway and it promises to be a fantastic evening. I hope you are all ready for it!
Lauren Crow
President 2024-2025