Alfreton woman takes to skies in memory of niece

An Alfreton aunt is taking on a daring challenge in memory of her niece who died last year aged 16.

On Saturday 10 May, Natalie Bryan will take on our skydive, freefalling 10,000ft at speeds of up to 120mph. She is raising funds for us because we provided End-of-Life care for her niece, Rubie Evans.

Rubie was born with Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Deficiency, a rare neurodegenerative disorder that affects metabolism. She died in July 2024.

“Rubie fought so hard throughout her life, and she amazed us all. She made us proud every single day and no matter what, she had a beautiful smile on her face,” said Natalie. “She is very much loved and will always be remembered for her fighting spirit, her sass and the occasional victory. There definitely will never be another Rubie.

“Sadly, Rubie couldn’t really do very much. She couldn’t walk or talk but she was always happy. We were told she would never make it until she was 16, but she proved everyone wrong. In the end the fight was just too much for her.

“She went to Rainbows for End-of-Life care and Rubie seemed to have a new lease of life there; loving music therapy and massages. And everyone at Rainbows was so welcoming and so kind and caring.

“Rainbows is still supporting Rubie’s family. We have been to coffee mornings and also made a glass leaf in the Remembrance Garden.”

Natalie (43) signed up for our Skydive at Langer Airfield in what she describes as a moment of madness. “Honestly I am terrified,” she said. “It kept popping up on Facebook and I signed up. It is pushing me out of my comfort zone a bit. But I keep telling myself I am doing it for Rubie. Rainbows just couldn’t do enough for our family so to raise money, was just a no brainer.”

Natalie is a Teaching Assistant at Christ the King Catholic Voluntary Academy, in Alfreton, and they have also raised over £700 for Rainbows through various activities including a “Toast Club”.

Claire Hoggan, Rainbows Senior Events Officer, said: “What Natalie is doing for Rainbows is incredible and we hope she has a fantastic experience. Thank you to everyone who has supported her, ensuring we can continue providing care to young people like Rubie, as well as babies and children. Thank you also to everyone at the school who supports Rainbows, we really couldn’t do what we do without you.”

To sponsor Natalie, visit Natalie Bryan is fundraising for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People