Health & Lifestyle · 6 Intermediate · September 20, 2026

97-Year-Old Wing Walker Donates to Hospital

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain) via Wikimedia Commons

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Vocabulary

wing walker /wɪŋ ˈwɔːkər/ noun

a person who performs tricks while standing on the outside of a moving airplane

The wing walker stood on the airplane's wing during the flying stunt.

remarkable /rɪˈmɑːrkəbəl/ adjective

unusual or special in a way that surprises or impresses people

Her remarkable achievement at age 97 inspired people everywhere.

pursue /pərˈsuː/ verb

to continue doing something or trying to achieve a goal

She continues to pursue new adventures and challenges.

extreme sport /ɪkˈstriːm spɔːrt/ noun

a dangerous physical activity that requires skill and bravery

Wing walking is considered an extreme sport because of its high risk.

donation /doʊˈneɪʃən/ noun

a gift of money or goods given to help a person or organization

Her generous donation will help the hospital buy new medical equipment.

grateful /ˈɡreɪtfəl/ adjective

feeling or showing thanks for something someone did

She felt grateful to the doctors who cared for her recovery.

Article

A 97-year-old woman has made a generous donation to the hospital that cared for her. This remarkable person is known worldwide as the oldest female wing walker, which means she performs dangerous stunts while standing on airplane wings. Recently, she gave a large cheque to the hospital ward where doctors and nurses had treated her.

An Active Life

Most people at age 97 spend their time relaxing at home. Not this woman. She continues to pursue exciting adventures and physical challenges. Her brave spirit and determination have inspired thousands of people around the world who follow her activities online and in the news.

Wing Walking Experience

Wing walking is an extreme sport where a person stands on the outer structure of a flying airplane. It requires tremendous courage, physical strength, and mental focus. Only a small number of people attempt this activity, and even fewer continue doing it into old age. Her achievements in this field have earned her recognition from aviation experts and sports organizations.

Giving Back

The donation she presented to the hospital shows her grateful nature. She wanted to support the medical staff who helped her recover and return to her active lifestyle. The hospital plans to use the money to improve equipment and services for patients in the ward.

An Inspiration

Many people see her as a role model for healthy, purposeful aging. She demonstrates that age does not have to limit a person's goals or dreams. Her combination of adventure, generosity, and positive attitude continues to motivate people of all ages to live life fully and help others in their community.

Discussion Questions

What do you think gives a person like this the courage to perform wing walking at such an advanced age?
Why do you think she decided to donate money to the hospital instead of keeping it for herself?
Would you consider becoming a wing walker or practicing an extreme sport? Why or why not?
In your opinion, how does someone's attitude toward aging affect their quality of life?
What kind of activities make you feel inspired and motivated to live a more active life?

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