A DUBLIN-based woman who died in a horrific paragliding accident after slipping from her harness mid-air has been remembered as someone who “loved being in the sky”.
Paulina Biskup, a Polish national, took to the skies at the Aguapanela paragliding site in Roldanillo, west of Bogota in Columbia last Tuesday.
Paulina, who lived in Dublin and graduated from Trinity College Dublin in 2010, had gone to jump with her partner and a group of friends.
The 38-year-old had taken off in the paraglide just minutes before experiencing difficulties.
It is not yet known if her harness was checked by someone else before she took off.
The young woman slipped and fell from the harness, which was thought to not have been properly secured before she took off.
Paulina’s pals have told how the young woman died “doing what she loved most”.
Friends and Fellow Pilots of the Free Flight Community, who have set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for Paulina’s family, said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the devastating loss of Paulina, a bright and adventurous soul whose passion for life was an inspiration to everyone she met.
“Paulina was someone who embraced life’s beauty with unmatched energy and joy. She loved being in the sky and explore new beautiful places.
“Tragically, Paulina passed away while doing what she loved the most, soaring through the skies like a bird, paragliding in Colombia with her friends.
“Her sudden departure has left an unimaginable void in the hearts of all who knew her, especially her family and her loving partner.
“Their bond was one of deep love, shared adventures, and unwavering support for one another.”
The group told how, as those who loved Paulina grieve their heartbreaking loss, her family faces the “difficult challenge” of managing unexpected financial burdens.
This includes the cost of repatriating Paulina back to her home country and covering funeral expenses.
‘ENSURE PAULINA’S LIFE IS CELEBRATED’
The Free Flight Community continued: “This is an overwhelming and painful time for them, and we want to offer every bit of support we can to help ease their burden.
“We are reaching out to you – friends, and compassionate supporters – to ask for your help in honouring Paulina’s memory and supporting her family during this incredibly difficult period.
“Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a meaningful difference.
“Your generosity will not only assist with practical costs but will also provide some peace of mind for the family.
“Together, we can help ensure Paulina’s life is celebrated with the love and dignity she deserves.”
Authorities in Roldanillo said an investigation into the accident is underway.
