A COURAGEOUS daughter braved new heights in memory of her late mum who died after struggling with mental health.

Gina Brown tackled her fear of heights head-on this Mother’s Day after flying thousands of feet in the air and sky-diving out the plane.

The 30-year-old, who lives in Millom, took on the challenge in memory of her late mum Andrea Dent, who died four years ago at the age of 48 after struggling with her mental health.

“Mental health is something which is so prevalent. I suffer with it and so does my husband,” said Gina, a receptionist and gymnastics coach. “I’ve always been scared of heights and so has mum. It wasn’t something to conquer as such but something to try and feel closer to her.

“I felt like if I went up there – I’d feel that much closer to mum.”

Gina took on the challenge on Mother’s Day – a day the mum-of-one finds particularly challenging.

The Mail: Gina BrownGina Brown (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “I did the skydive on Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day has never been the same since mum died – I could never enjoy it even though I have a little boy.

“I thought to myself if I arrange it on Mother’s Day, I can distract myself and raise some money for charity.

“It was very scary but amazing and the adrenaline was unbelievable. At the bottom I felt shocked that I was still alive!”

Gina hopes her daring dive through the clouds would have made her late mum proud.

 She said: “Mum would’ve said ‘you silly buggar’ if she’d found out about the skydive! But I think she would’ve been proud.

“I still struggle without my mum today. I’m just trying every day to make her proud.

“She was so funny – she was the type of person that could make anyone laugh. You could really talk to her about anything – she was a really good mum.

“She was incredibly close to my son and loved being a nanny.”

The Mail: Gina Brown with mum Andrea DentGina Brown with mum Andrea Dent (Image: Newsquest)

Gina took on the challenge to help raise money for the charity Mental Health Foundation – and received £350 in donations.

She is also urging any person out there who needs support with their mental health to seek help.

Gina said: “Mum’s death has definitely made me want to talk about mental health and spread awareness. If you’re struggling, know that there’s always someone out there who will listen. That’s the first step to take if you need help: speak out.”

If you need support, you can contact the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123.