I’ve always had a fear of heights; for instance, standing too close to the edge on a Manhattan rooftop can leave me breathless. Likewise, climbing ladders or standing near windows in tall buildings is unnerving for me. So, what’s a more daring way to confront this fear than skydiving? Is it courage or just folly?

A close family friend, Brett, who’s an experienced skydiver, convinced me to try it. He mentioned a place he frequents was offering discounted skydiving vouchers late last year. I purchased one, procrastinating until nearly its expiration. I booked my first jump for last Wednesday, right before a trip to New Orleans for what I called my ‘Great Escape’. Facing my fear of heights by leaping from a plane seemed like a perfect kickoff to my travels.

As the day approached, my anxiety transformed into excitement amidst the chaos of packing and moving. Upon arriving at Sky Dance Skydiving, Brett and I underwent training. Excitement filled me until I realized I’d be jumping from a tiny Cessna.

We ascended in the Cessna, along with my tandem partner, a cameraman, and the pilot. The calm flight turned tense when the door opened, and the cameraman exited. Despite my fears, I followed my tandem partner’s instructions, stepped onto the wheel, and launched myself into the wind.

The prospect of maneuvering my tall, robust frame out of such a small plane at 9,000 feet was daunting, but backing out wasn’t an option.

The freefall was pure intensity—an exhilarating rush of wind and adrenaline, followed by a serene parachute glide to the ground.

I’m eager to skydive again. Despite the initial fear, the experience was incredibly fun, and I believe it’s something everyone, especially those afraid of heights, should try. I can’t wait for my next jump!