HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — During Breast Cancer Awareness Month a local skydiving center wants to give cancer survivors and warriors more than just an opportunity to check an item off their bucket list.
Fearfully parachuting 10,000 feet from the sky over Hazleton Regional Airport Brandi Ellis was just happy to land safely on the ground.
"Like oh my gosh, I'm falling, I'm falling, I'm falling and then like you're okay," said Ellis.
The skydiving experience marked a first for the cancer survivor who battled two-plus years with leukemia. Brandi was diagnosed in 2022, underwent a stem cell transplant, and is now in remission feeling healthy.
"I just hope she comes out and feels more alive," says Taylor.
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Lakenyia Taylor, Brandi's sister-in-law, and her brother Brandi's husband planned the special moment that at one point in time they weren't sure they would ever get the chance to experience.
"It's just so awesome and amazing and she can't wait to go home and tell our kids hey Mommy is okay and just knowing she is still here for us," added Dominique Ellis.
Above the Pocono's Skydivers organized the It's Pink Above the Poconos, event for the first time this year. They want to raise awareness, encourage women to get routine screenings, and for those fighting to understand they aren't alone.
"People who have been going through cancer or with their family members who are going through cancer it's a lot it takes a toll on everybody," continued Taylor.
Brandi's loved ones have been with her every step of the way, even if it means thousands of feet in the air.
From very low to very high, her support system is always by her side and an experience like this is yet another to go through together.
"I know I wouldn't have made it through my battle if it wasn't for the people in my life," noted Dominque.
Monday is Brandi's 37th birthday and not only did she do this for herself, she did this for two of her friends who are currently battling breast cancer.
Above the Poconos Skydivers will donate $35 of the tandem jumper tickets to the cancer support community of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter.
If you want to show support and take the dive, the event will run tomorrow from 9:00 a.m. to sunset.
If you aren't feeling that brave, check out their website.
