Colchester mum to skydive for charity that helped her whilst son was critically ill
Jess Johnson, 32, from Colchester, will jump from 13,000ft on Saturday to raise funds for The Sick Children's Trust.
The charity provided her and her former partner, Joe, with a place to stay while their son, Jaxxon, was critically ill at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Jaxxon became unwell at just two weeks old in 2019 when he was suffering from bronchiolitis and respiratory syncytial virus, which can be serious in children.
Jaxxon was critically ill at Great Ormond Street Hospital (Image: The Sick Children's Trust)
It led to Jaxxon suffering from a collapsed lung and a bleed on the brain.
He was placed on life support at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and the Sick Children's Trust provided the family with accommodation at their Rainbow House, just minutes from Jaxxon's ward.
Ms Johnson said she is nervous about the 13,000ft skydive but is keen to raise as much money as she can for the charity which helped her when she had nowhere to go.
She said: 'I can't thank The Sick Children's Trust enough.
"I can't lie, I was terrified about the skydive to begin with, and my nerves have been a mess.
"But now we're getting closer to the date, I'm so excited and cannot wait to be up in the sky.
Jaxxon is now thriving (Image: The Sick Children's Trust)
"We stayed at the Rainbow House for five days and honestly, we couldn't have afforded to stay in London without that support, especially over Christmas.
"There was even a Christmas dinner cooked by volunteers and cookies we could bring back to Jaxxon's older brother Roman.
"That meant everything."
A Just Giving page has been set up to support Jessica's skydive, and donations can be made via justgiving.com/page/jessica-johnson-13.
Jaxxon, now five, is thriving despite some ongoing health challenges.
Ms Johnson said: "He's the cheekiest, smartest little boy, and he loves to tell people his story.
Jess Johnson with her dad Rob (Image: The Sick Children's Trust)
"He even stood in the school playground collecting donations for my skydive."
Jess will be joined on the jump by her 55-year-old dad, Rob, a skydiving enthusiast.
She said: "He's absolutely over the moon.
"He's been trying to get me to do this for years."
The funds raised will go directly to The Sick Children's Trust to help provide more families with a warm, welcoming place to stay when their child is seriously ill in hospital.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Newsweek
10-07-2025
- Newsweek
FDA Issues Highest Risk Warning for Nationwide Chocolate Recall
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A nationwide recall of chocolate products has been issued the highest risk warning by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Weaver Nut Company, Inc., based in Pennsylvania, announced a voluntary recall for specific lots of its semi-sweet chocolate nonpareils on June 17 due to the possible undeclared presence of milk, a major food allergen. The FDA subsequently issued a Class 1 risk classification for the recall on July 8. Newsweek contacted Weaver Nut Company, Inc. for comment by email outside of regular working hours. Stock image: Some chocolate treats are seen on a white background. Stock image: Some chocolate treats are seen on a white background. Press Association/AP Images Why It Matters A Class I risk classification represents "a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death," according to the FDA. The recall was initiated due to the undeclared presence of milk, one of the nine major food allergens as defined in law. The others are eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans and wheat. The FDA warned that people with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk "run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the impacted products." Allergic reactions vary in severity from mild symptoms, such as hives and lip swelling, to life-threatening complications, such as anaphylaxis, that may include fatal respiratory problems. What To Know The products impacted by the recall include: Nonpareil, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Christmas Seeds)—849 cases—item number: 47518—lot numbers: 204206, 204207, 204208, 204209, 204212, 224225 Nonpareils, Semi-Sweet Chocolate (White Seeds)—1760 cases—item number: D2645—lot numbers: 204214-RL, 204214, 204215, 224221, 224222, 224223, 135215, 135216, 135217, 135220, 135221, 145204, 145205-1, 145207-1, 145210-1 The products were distributed to customers throughout the U.S., and sold at various retail and grocery stores. The issue was identified after a wholesale customer submitted a complaint regarding discrepancies with product specifications, the FDA said in its release. Subsequent laboratory testing confirmed the presence of milk in the chocolates, which were labeled free from milk, it added. As of June 17, no illnesses had been reported in connection with the consumption of the products. What People Are Saying Weaver Nut Company, Inc. said in the FDA's recall notice: "Weaver Nut Company is working with the FDA and is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of its products." The FDA said on its website: "People with food allergies should read labels and avoid the foods they are allergic to. The law requires that food labels identify the food source of all major food allergens used to make the food." Dr. Sebastian Lighvani, the director of New York Allergy & Asthma PLLC, told Newsweek previously: "Every three minutes in the United States, someone ends up in an emergency room because of an allergic reaction after accidental ingestion of food. So even when we try hard, these reactions are happening. And if you look at the incidence of anaphylaxis, it has skyrocketed in the last five, 10, 20 years. And in the U.S., there's like a 300 to 400 percent increase in the rates of anaphylaxis to foods." What Happens Next The recall is listed as ongoing, according to the FDA. Consumers who purchased the products and have a milk allergy are urged to discard them immediately, or return them to their place of purchase for a full refund.


Hamilton Spectator
09-07-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
'I knew I wanted to volunteer': Diane Marshall hailed ‘selfless' and ‘compassionate'
Diane Marshall is well known around the local community of Sault Ste. Marie. She's involved in organizations including, the Canadian Cancer Society, the United way, the Council for Exceptional Children and the Sault Area Hospital board of directors, to name a few. Volunteering for the Rotary Club, she once travelled to India at her own expense to participate in a polio eradication and immunization program. Marshall is recognized as a local hometown champion, specifically highlighting her work with the Christmas Cheer drive as convenor. The program, funded by the Sault Star Santa Fund, has been active since the 1960's and helped over 2,000 families in 2024 alone. Her involvement began shortly after retiring as a school educator in 1997; Marshall has spearheaded this group for over 20 years. Leading by example, her experience in education has left nothing short of her accomplishments. 'I knew I wanted to volunteer and was always appreciative of what Christmas Cheer did. We have a number of dedicated people who come in and work putting the packages together and do their very best to give the children gifts that they request,' Marshall said. Marshall described being involved as an 'exciting' opportunity to make families in the community have a better Christmas. She credits the community's importance for helping make it all happen. 'Between the people that work in their offices, to the people that give gifts, to the people that work at the depots and deliver the gifts and the staff,' she said. A long list of involved staff and volunteers around the community that make the drive go as smoothly as possible. She said no matter what field of work you're from most organizations could not exist without volunteer work. 'They make it possible,' she said. Although there isn't an exact number of items or money that's donated, Marshall estimates between $125,000 and $150,000 is spent every year on the drive. 'That could not happen without the generosity of the community,' she said. Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Matthew Shoemaker described Diane Marshall as 'selfless' and 'compassionate'. 'Her longstanding volunteerism speaks to the best qualities of Sault Ste. Marie,' he said. 'Volunteers like Diane are so vital; they help fill these gaps with compassion and a deep understanding of their community. She was an incredibly deserving recipient of the City's highest honor, the Medal of Merit,' Shoemaker said. An honor she received in 2006, Marshall was also recognized with the Governor General of Canada Sovereign Medal for Volunteers in 2012. One of only 61 total recipients of the award. Christmas Cheer is the most recognized holiday drive in Sault Ste. Marie and draws attention from other cities in Ontario. 'I believe it shows that our community is a very carrying one and wants to help make a difference for people in need,' she said. 'You would be hard pressed to find someone with her experience, expertise and compassion to lead the local Christmas Cheer Drive year-after-year. She has helped thousands of families enjoy a memorable and happy holiday season, and I am so grateful that she continues to step up and dedicate herself to such a worthwhile cause,' Shoemaker said. Through all her work not only with the Christmas Cheer but in other volunteer organizations, Marshall keeps the same motivation for everything she does in the community. 'Because of the people that work in it and help the people who might be having difficulties. It's a joy we all have the same focus and same reasons for wanting to help,' she said. Marshall said she is confident that the impact Christmas Cheer makes and the importance to everyone involved that it's here to stay. 'It's been proven over the years that there's always a need to help other people, and if we can help even a small bit, our job is worthwhile,' she said. Marshall gives credit to the Sault Star Fund for the financials and didn't underestimate how important the organization is to Christmas Cheer. 'Without the Sault Star Fund and the money they give, I'm not sure how we can operate. The Sault Star is a very respected and recognized fund. Because of that people trust in knowing how that money is being spent and where it's going. The Sault Star plays an incredible role in the Christmas Cheer program.' There is 'no question' that Diane embodies the characteristics of a 'hometown hero,' Shoemaker said. 'Her quiet leadership, tireless service, and unwavering commitment to others have made our community stronger,' he added. Through all the work she does with every program she's involved with, Diane Marshall continues to be an important community member and her defining acts of volunteer work. There's no one quite like her to have the honor of being a hometown champion. We love where we live, and throughout the summer, we are running a series of stories called How Canada Wins that highlight what makes our community unique and special within Canada. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .


New York Post
09-07-2025
- New York Post
I'm skipping the spa — these Prime Day supplement deals are all I need to feel good
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. They say health is wealth, and that's true, but it also can be expensive. As someone who has shelled out serious cash for colostrums, protein powders and trendy supplements for my lady parts, I've come to count on my Prime membership to save and score serious deals on health and wellness products. Prime Day (which started yesterday and finishes on July 11), has sort of become like another Christmas for me, as it's one of the few times I'm almost guaranteed to find all my favorite vitamins and other self-care essentials at a much lower price. Advertisement I'm going to let you in on a little secret: You don't have to wait until a new year to overhaul your health routine. You can start today. And to give you a little inspo (or fitsp, as we used to say in the toxic early aughts), I've rounded up some of the best Prime Day supplement deals to get you started. Amazon NAD supplements are sort of trendy right now, but there's actual science behind them. They support cellular energy production, fight inflammation and my personal fav health benefit — maintain cellular health (aka they're anti-aging). My rec? The TRU NIAGEN PRO NAD+ Supplements. They're clinical strength, have decades of research behind them, and boost NAD levels by over 50% in 2 weeks. They're typically even pricier, so if you're NAD-curious, Prime Day is the best time to grab them. Amazon My mother turned me on to The Super Orange-flavored Emergen-C 1000mg Vitamin C Powder for Daily Immune Support, and they are amazing. Any time I'm getting the sniffles, I put one of the packets in water and feel fine by the next day. They not only provide a healthy dose of the essential vitamin, but also have zinc, manganese, B vitamins for energy and electrolytes. I typically get a smaller box, but this one for Prime Day comes with 90 packs, which means you won't have to repurchase until next year. Amazon I don't eat fish every day, so I depend on an Omega supplement. Most people sleep on them, but they support brain and heart health. Solgar has been a trusted brand for years, and its 1300mg Omega 3-6 gives a concentrated blend of essential fatty acids from fish, flaxseed, and borage oils. Amazon shoppers give it a 4.7-star rating. Amazon When I saw this discount on the Garden of Life Multivitamin for Women, I almost pulled a muscle. Along with having 15 vitamins and minerals at 100% of the Daily Value (DV) or more, it also has a bunch of B vitamins and 2.5 mg of iron. Most multis can't say that. Amazon Protein: Critical for muscle support and growth, healthy skin and cell repair — and lots of us aren't getting enough. The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a favorite of mine and more than 100K Amazon shoppers. A single scoop provides 24 grams of protein for only 120 calories, plus 29 servings come in this container, so you won't have to restock anytime soon. Amazon You may be asking yourself, 'Does collagen actually work?' I'm here to tell you that it absolutely does. I know because I take it almost every day. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are a best-seller, and more than 20,000 Amazon customers have purchased it alone this month — that's saying a lot, considering July just started. It has hyaluronic acid, plus vitamin C, the critical ingredient that makes it absorbable. Since I've added it to my routine, my nails and nails have become longer and stronger. Amazon Here me out, the O Positiv URO Vaginal Probiotics totally deserve a spot in your cart. Along with being third-party tested, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and non-GMO, they have five different strains of gut-friendly bacteria that promote a healthy pH. I want to say more but will keep it PG. However, they're an Amazon best-seller for a reason — just read the reviews on these and you'll try them for yourself. Amazon Even if you're not interested in ditching the coffee, RYZE Superfoods Mushroom Coffee is worth a try. It's made with adaptogenic mushrooms, including lion's mane and turkey tail, which improve endurance and boost immunity and energy levels. You can mix it with hot water, but I like it best as an add-on in one of my protein shakes. Seriously, give it a go, more than 80,000 Amazon shoppers have this month. Amazon Whenever my digestion is off, I take a shot of Dose. It's made with milk thistle, dandelion and ginger — three things that promote better gut and liver health. It also has turmeric, a known anti-inflammatory. I've heard others call it everything from 'magical' to 'life-changing,' and it kind of is. Since taking it, I experience less bloating after meals. Three packs come in an order. Amazon For help falling (and staying) asleep, I rely on Moon Juice – Magnesi-Om. Magnesium regulates GABA neurotransmitters, which tell your brain to power down for the evening. The clinical strength blend also has L-Theanine, which I like to refer to as nature's Xanax. It's a compound from green tea and increases alpha brain waves, so you feel less anxious, making it easier to snooze. Trust, far better for you than a nightcap. Honestly, this list is barely scraping the surface of the number of Prime Day deals I found on supplements and other wellness must-haves, but this should get you started. But prices are ever changing, so I suggest grabbing them while you can. Your Prime Day FAQs, answered How long does Prime Day last? In a new twist for 2025, shoppers have 4 days to take advantage of Prime Day discounts. This sale starts on July 8 at 12:01 a.m. PT and runs through July 11 at 11:59 p.m. PT. When does Prime Day end? Prime Day 2025 ends on July 11 at 11:59 p.m. PT, so east-coasters have until about 3 a.m. on July 12 their time to shop the deals. Do you have to have Amazon Prime to shop Prime Day? Prime Day is a member-exclusive sale event. Interested shoppers can grab a 30-day free trial to try Prime, and its many benefits, with no strings attached. What are the best Prime Day deals? From reporting on Amazon sales throughout the years, we can tell you for certain that it's the ideal period to stock up on household essentials, score great deals on vacuums, tech and appliances, refill your skincare empties, and comb through the massive catalog of Amazon best-sellers. Is Prime Day worth it? We certainly think so! Prime Day is a great chance to score Black Friday-worthy discounts on thousands of deals, including everything from big ticket items to Post reader-favorite trash bags. Our team diligently sorts through all the offers to find you the very best items to grab on sale. When is the next Prime Day? Already wondering when the next Amazon Prime Day is? Prime Day takes place in July each year, so it's safe to assume it will take place in mid-July 2026 — similar to previous years. Can't wait to shop more Amazon deals? Look out for Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale, which typically runs in October for shoppers looking to beat the holiday rush of Black Friday. Don't miss Post Wanted's around-the-clock coverage. Click here to find all of the best deals. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.