At 104 years young, Chicago native Dorothy Hoffner proved that age truly is just a number by attempting to break the world record for the oldest skydiver. This vibrant centenarian departed our realm only days after her daring jump, but not before she made a profound impact, leaving us a mantra to live by – “Let’s go, let’s go, Geronimo!”
Unyielding to her age, Dorothy Hoffner, known for her eternal spirit and zest for life, took her final 13,500-foot leap of courage at Skydive Chicago, located 85 miles south of her Windy City home. This was Dorothy’s second skydiving adventure, her first being when she was a sprightly 100-year-old.
Hoffner’s heartening tale has drawn attention worldwide and her record-breaking feat is currently under review by the Guinness World Records. The standing record is held by Sweden’s Linnéa Ingegärd Larsson, who skydived at the age of 103.
Hoffner’s unexpected passing has cast a sombre shade over her inspiring achievement. However, as Skydive Chicago poignantly pointed out in a statement, “Dorothy reminds us that it’s never too late to take the thrill of a lifetime.”
Far from being just another number in the record books, Hoffner’s legacy is a testament to a life lived fearlessly and to the fullest. Her daring spirit, encapsulated in her own words, “Skydiving is a wonderful experience, and it’s nothing to be afraid of. Just do it!”, offers an empowering narrative for all of us, reminding us that irrespective of age, it’s never too late to chase our dreams.
