Cape Town - Gadija Cassiem’s idea of freedom was leaping more than 350m from Signal Hill and admiring the picturesque Cape Town on her way down.
And that’s exactly how the 80-year-old Fairways resident spent her Freedom Day on Monday.
Cassiem said she wanted to “live a life of freedom” and thought the best way to celebrate her birthday was paragliding off Signal Hill.
“It was recently (April 14) my birthday, and I wanted this experience from my heart. My niece gave me the chance to do so with this present,” she said on Monday, exhilarated by the flight.
Downhill Adventures, Icarus Paragliding owner and pilot, Jacques du Plessis accompanied Cassiem throughout her adventure, guiding her through the pristine blue sky.
“Jacques asked if I wanted to do turns and spins and I was all for it, I completely trusted him, he was in control and helped me really enjoy the trip,” said Cassiem.
“The wind against my face, and the thrill of jumping off the hill were so exciting and enjoyable… it felt like ‘YEEEEEEE!’ “ she said, throwing her arms into the air.
Piloting the two to safety, Du Plessis said there were a number of safety risks involved.
“We were worried that we may not fly today considering the wind predictions… but we were very lucky things changed in our favour.”
Accustomed to older clients, Du Plessis explained that the youthful nature of Cassiem was what really helped her leap off the mountain and made her dream a reality.
“She is so full of life. I hope that she will attempt again when she is 92 – the oldest I have helped pilot,” said Du Plessis.
Shortly before getting the green light, Cassiem showed disappointment that the flight may not go ahead.
“Up until now, the kids still didn’t want me to go. This is something I’ve always wanted to do and I was a little sad that the conditions might not have let me do it… I didn’t want to come back, and when it finally happened I definitely wanted to be up there longer.”
Despite the tragic death of her husband in July last year, Cassiem has made it her mission to continue to live life without regret.
“My grandpa passed away last year and he was basically my grandmother’s only companion. They did everything together,” said granddaughter Nuraan Hesselberth.
“When he got ill, my grandmother always said she wanted to live her life, and be free and do the things she was never able to do whilst married.”
Great-grandmother, thrill seeker and active senior, Cassiem is also proud of her vigorous lifestyle, sporting a blue sweatsuit and commenting on her active role in a women’s walking group, Fit for Fun.
“I have walked up to 10km with them. I love to walk and I’ll keep going until I can’t anymore.”
Through walking various 10km competitions, Cassiem sees herself conquering more in the future.
“I’ve walked them all, you name it I’ve done it. I like to include myself in long-distance walking as much as possible and I’m going to keep entering more.”
Cassiem explained that without the help of her family, specifically her son Nazeem, she would not have as much energy to push herself.
“My son is a fitness trainer, he encourages me to be active and keep reaching my goals.”
Inspired and encouraged, niece Sedica Knight said: “She has always influenced me to be adventurous, she is the reason I am who I am today.
“She can do anything she puts her mind to, she’s totally been my role model throughout my life.
“I wanted to get her this gift for her birthday because I know she’s always wanted to do it… there’s nothing this woman can’t do and I absolutely look up to her.”
Thrilled with her experience, Cassiem hoped that she could make paragliding a regular sport.
“I am a fun person, my future is my health. I want to make the most of life.”
Cape Argus