For 20 years, Marty Clark, dreamed of experiencing the thrill of skydiving. Through support from the Hope Fund at Ohio’s Hospice and the efforts of Marty’s Ohio’s Hospice care team including social worker Makayla, Marty was able to achieve his goal to skydive at iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Cincinnati on January 2, 2024.  

“I am beyond grateful to walk through the hospice journey with Marty and Marlene as their social worker,” Makayla said. “I felt immense happiness and excitement to be a part of this experience and see Marty so happy to fulfill one of the last items on his bucket list.”

Marlene Clark, Marty’s wife, drove Marty and his support crew of children, grandchildren, and a friend to Cincinnati for the day. “I enjoyed getting the feeling of skydiving but not having to jump out of a plane,” Marty said. Marty’s enthusiasm extended to the younger generation, as his 9-year-old granddaughter and Marlene’s daughter, along with her 16-year-old son, bravely joined him in the thrilling adventure. The rest of the 11-person group, including Marlene, played the crucial role of moral support and enthusiastic spectators. 

“Without the support of Hope Fund, a donor-supported fund at Ohio’s Hospice that helps support patient needs and end-of-life goals, Marty would not have been able to have this experience, and for that we are very grateful. It is very appreciated,” Marlene said.  

Marty’s life journey began in Alabama. He later moved to Ohio to join his brother who had found a career working for Norfolk Southern. Marty joined Norfolk Southern as a signal switchman and moved up to conductor on a freight train. He also joined the Ohio National Guard, serving as a field wireman for six years.