Last Saturday started like any other. I was up bright and early to take Mr. Gordo out for his morning walk. As we made our way up a peaceful Waterdown street, I realized that this day was going to be an exciting and eventful one.

Although I had been working myself up over the possibility of equipment malfunctioning during my tandem skydive, I was surprisingly calm that morning. I had a good feeling in my gut.

Upon my arrival at Skydive SWOOP in Flamborough, I was instantly greeted by an enthusiastic gang of people, who like me were psyched to jump out of a plane for charity. The event organizers and the staff at SWOOP made my first tandem experience a memorable one.

After proudly handing over my envelope filled with the money I had collected for the Planeterra Foundation, $492 to be exact, I was ready to learn the skydiving technique and head out into the sky.

While we waited for Mother Nature to clear the skies, our very savvy instructors walked us through various procedures. With a few friends and Dad by my side, the morning went by in a flash.

Then, all of a sudden, I heard my name called over the loud speaker. It was my turn to suit up and walk courageously to the small plane that would take a professional tandem instructor, a photographer and me high up into the sky.

Hovering at 10,500 feet, instructor Ross Forsyth reminded me of the procedure. When the door of the plane opened, a whirlwind of noise and fresh air came pinching at my face. "This is it," I thought. "There's no backing out now."

Seconds later, I was freefalling at approximately 120 kilometres an hour.

Moments after the initial shock, I realized I was smiling like I've never smiled before. I extended my arms and let the fun begin. With the photographer/ videographer only inches away it was time to perform for the camera - thumbs up, peace signs, peek-a-boos and of course, a grin from one ear to the other, made for terrific photos.

The freefall, which lasted approximately 40 seconds, quickly came to an end, as the parachute was successfully deployed. What a relief!

As we jolted up into an upright position, it was time to enjoy the scenery and learn a thing or two about steering the parachute.

The canopy ride, so calm and serene, offered breathtaking views of the community.

As we approached the ground, I could see Dad waving enthusiastically, while my friends snapped some photographs of the plucky journalist soaring through the sky.

Although I never thought I would consider jumping out of a plane in my lifetime, I admit that my first skydiving experience was such a thrilling and memorable one that I can't wait to do it again.

But my jump wasn't the only success of the weekend. All 30 participants in the 5th annual Jump for Charity event helped raise $17,525 for the Planeterra Foundation, which will support various organizations across the globe. And this wouldn't have been possible if it wasn't for the many kind-hearted people who financially assisted all jumpers in their daredevilish endeavours - and to you, thank you!