At the age of 102, Mona Parsons has proven that age is no barrier to adventure. The centenarian recently celebrated her birthday by fulfilling a long-held dream of skydiving, albeit in a safe, simulated environment at iFly in Sydney. Accompanied by her carer, Karin Larkin, Mona embraced the thrill of flying, showcasing her zest for life and her belief that one is never too old to try something new.
The experience took place in December 2023, marking a significant milestone on Mona’s extensive bucket list. “This has been our most daring [bucket-list item] yet,” said Larkin, who has been by Mona’s side through various adventures. The duo shared the excitement, with Mona’s strong spirit shining through as she expressed confidence and enthusiasm throughout the activity. “She had a lot of reassurance that everything was going to be fine, but she wasn’t phased really by anything,” Larkin noted. “She’s just an amazing woman.”
Mona is believed to be the oldest individual to take on the iFly wind tunnel, with approximately eight family members present to support her during the event. “I’ve had an adventurous life, I’m game to try anything,” Mona remarked, reflecting on her rich experiences.
Her adventurous spirit is not new; it stems from a lifetime of exploration and courage. Mona has previously ticked off several exciting activities from her bucket list, including learning to fish, dolphin watching, and visiting both the Coliseum and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. These experiences highlight her determination and commitment to living life to the fullest.
Mona’s strong will is evident in her life choices. She joined the army at a young age, despite her parents’ concerns, demonstrating a resolute attitude from an early age. Now residing in an aged care center operated by Anglicare, she is known for her upbeat personality and willingness to engage in new experiences. Larkin shared that Mona is a favorite among staff and residents alike, admired for her can-do attitude and sense of humor.
Looking ahead, Mona has more aspirations to fulfill. Among her future goals are learning to swim and swimming with sharks, proving that her adventurous spirit remains unyielding. As she continues to seek out new challenges, Mona Parsons serves as an inspiring example of living life without limitations, encouraging others to embrace their passions, no matter their age.
In a world that often associates age with limitations, Mona’s story is a refreshing reminder that adventure knows no bounds. Her journey illustrates the importance of having a robust support network and maintaining a positive outlook on life, inspiring many to pursue their own dreams, regardless of age.
