Fundraising

Barry’s daring wing walk in memory of his wife 

Written by Sam Wilson, July 17, 2024

Seventy-six-year-old Barry Slasberg will attempt a daring wing walk to raise money for the Haemophilia Society and two other charities in honour of his late wife. 

On 1 August, Barry, who has two grandchildren, will be strapped to a fixed-wing aircraft, travelling between 80 and 130 miles per hour, at an altitude of over 500 feet for his fundraising flight. 

Although he says he’s not a natural daredevil, Barry decided he needed to do something dramatic to maximise his fundraising. He said: ‘I had a ‘eureka’ moment – I realised it wasn’t about me, it was about the three fantastic charities that I’m raising money for. I started off wanting to raise a sensible amount, then I moved beyond that and now the sky’s the limit.’ 

Barry’s wife, Judi, died last year after suffering from Parkinson’s disease. Barry has the condition too, but is so far feeling well, physically, so decided the time was right for a big adventure. 

He said: ‘I’m not sporty at all, and I’m not an adrenaline junkie, so this will be a real test. I’ll just put myself in the hands of the professionals and hope for the best.’ 

As he’s over 65, Barry had to get his doctor’s permission to do the wing walk, but he was happy to give a thumbs up for the flight.  

Judi was a life-long supporter of the Haemophilia Society and raised money for our charity for many years. She had several family members with the condition, including grandson Connor who has severe haemophilia A. Connor did his own fundraising walk for us last year in memory of Judi and in recognition of the support he received as a child.  

As well as the Haemophilia Society, Barry is raising money for the Cure Parkinson’s Trust and the Daventry Health Rehabilitation Trust which has supported him mentally and physically since Judi’s death.  

Barry and Judi were married for almost 50 years and have a daughter Emma. Barry said: ‘Judi was my life. Even in the last years when she was very poorly, we were enough for each other. We were a match made in heaven. This wing walk is all for Judi.’ 

You can donate to Barry’s wing walk here: Barry’s Wing Walk | givestar