Arlington Heights woman celebrates 80th birthday with surprise skydiving adventure

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ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (WGN) — Family members of an Illinois woman who celebrated her 80th birthday this week surprised her with a thrilling opportunity.

Ann Swindell turned 80 this week and her family members decided to celebrate by throwing her a surprise birthday party, and as part of the celebration, they offered her the chance to go skydiving.

“They surprised me for my birthday,” Swindell said. “They took me on an Amazing Race-themed pretty and one of my options was to come skydiving.”

After Swindell eventually accepted the challenge, she joined her daughter and granddaughter as they climbed into the sky, preparing to take the leap.

The cameras were rolling as the mother of three and grandmother of six graced the skies in a tandem jump with a partner from Skydive Windy City Chicago.

Once she made it to the ground, Swindell hugged her skydiving partner and celebrated with a high five.

Swindell is a retired seamstress and is very active. Not only is she involved with Park Ridge Community Church, she also finds time to volunteer at Peter Patterson Glassworks.

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