If you close your eyes and picture yourself celebrating your 100th birthday, what do you see? Many of us will conjure images of sitting on a comfy couch or rocking chair in front of a cozy fire, sipping tea with family members all around.
While this is not a bad scene, what about something more exciting? New York resident Eleanor Cunningham recently decided to spend her triple-digit birthday skydiving.
This was not the first skydiving experience for Cunningham, lovingly nicknamed “Nanny,” who began the sport at age 90. Her birthday jump, which took place at Saratoga Skydiving in Gansevoort, was her third. A cheering squad of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along for the celebration.
Cunningham’s granddaughter, Debbie Rogers, told the Albany Times Union, “she said I’m going to either land alive or dead, one way or the other. She’s been talking about this for a long time.”
Before she started skydiving, Cunningham was a skier in her 50s, and a golfer in her 70s. Perhaps golf was a bit too dull, however, since her 90s signified the start of her skydiving interest. She performed her jump – which went smoothly – with a full clearance from her doctor, who reports that she is in good health.
Eleanor Cunningham’s story truly is a reminder that you’re only really as old as you feel. Many people would consider their 90s a time to start slowing down. This remarkable woman is planning to go on her next skydiving excursion at age 105.
As to her secret for health and long life, Cunningham’s friend, Deb Sites, told the Times Union, “she told the man at the liquor store a few years ago that she attributes her long life to nipping and napping – nipping her wine and napping.”
A bit of wine, a good night’s sleep and a thirst for adventure – that is one recipe we can follow. Go Eleanor!
– The Alternative Daily
