HARRISON — Back in April, Cynde Laband of Harrison started to think about how she would celebrate her 40th birthday on June 22. She and her friends had been discussing their own “bucket lists,” tailored after the recent movie that featured characters creating a must-do list before they “kick the bucket.”

Laband, who is afraid of heights, decided to take the challenge and try sky diving. But she also wanted her effort to benefit a local nonprofit charity, and since she is a nurse, although a stay-at-home mom and volunteer right now; she decided Bridgton Hospital was a great charity.

Laband scheduled her skydive with Skydive New England in Lebanon on June 27. She organized a cut-a-thon at Salon 616, owned by Tonya Tibbetts, and Running with Scissors salon, owner Sarah Lowell. Tyler Patterson offered massages, Kelly Perkins ran a bake sale and Heather Silvia of Maine Morning Micro Roasters provided the coffee. Laband’s daughters, Briggs Bolduc, 10, and Lainey Laband, 7, sold snow cones. Laband also began selling Bridgton Hospital – Team Cynde bracelets at area stores and sought support from friends and family for her dive and for Bridgton Hospital.

The skydive took place on a nonrainy Saturday. Laband jumped at between 12,000 and 14,000 feet with professional instructor Dan Lane as her partner. Photographer Pete Matos captured the 4 ½ minutes to the ground. Laband raised $1,345 and presented the funds to the hospital.

Would she do it again? Laband is heading back soon with a friend to share the experience.