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🇧🇪 Belgium /Culture & Society

90-year-old Guido from Balen to skydive: 'I've never flown, and now this'

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • 90-year-old Guido Steylaerts from Balen will fulfill a lifelong dream by skydiving.
  • Steylaerts has never flown before and decided to pursue this extreme activity with his occupational therapist and daughter.
  • The jump is scheduled for tomorrow in Schaffen, with Steylaerts expressing excitement and a touch of apprehension.

Guido Steylaerts, a 90-year-old resident of Balen, is set to fulfill a remarkable lifelong wish tomorrow: a parachute jump. This extraordinary endeavor will see him leap from a plane alongside his occupational therapist, Kelly Grieten, and his daughter.

What began as a lighthearted suggestion has now become a reality. "I've never flown before, and now suddenly this," Guido remarked, expressing a mix of excitement and perhaps a little trepidation about his upcoming adventure. His occupational therapist, Kelly Grieten, shared that they regularly ask residents about their dreams. While some wish for simple outings, Guido's desire was far more adventurous.

"Hopefully, it goes well. We always get down," Guido quipped, showcasing his resilient spirit. Kelly confirmed that Guido remains very mobile and physically fit, noting that he participated in over 1,000 minutes of cycling on a stationary bike during the recent Tour de France. When Guido expressed his wish for something "crazy" like skydiving, Kelly promised to accompany him for support.

The cost of a parachute jump is significantly higher than a day trip, but Guido plans to finance the experience himself. His daughter will also be joining them, having expressed jealousy of the planned jump. The trio is set to make the leap tomorrow in Schaffen, marking a truly unforgettable experience for the 90-year-old.

Guido is nog heel mobiel en fysiek in orde.

— Kelly GrietenKelly described Guido's physical condition, which enables him to undertake the skydive.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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