Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

My challenge is to swim 1 mile in open water to raise money for Dove House whose amazing work and support provide much needed comfort for those who need it most.

This looks increasingly likely to be my first open water swim, as the weather has not been good for practices so far.  I'm exchanging my regulated lane markings, chlorinated water and 25m lanes for pond weed, live stock and chilled murky water, perhaps even choppy.  Well I can either sink or swim!

I first had experience with Dove house as they helped my mum when she was diagnosed with a terminal illness.  She had two spells there, and each time they seemed to revitalise her and build her up so she could cope better with her illness.  This was achieved with kindness, wisdom and patience, all in an oasis of light and calmness.

I saw this challenge as an opportunity not only to give something back but also to say thank you.

What better reason do I have to take the plunge.

Please take 5 minutes to donate to these worthy causes - no donation is too small.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please "dive" deep and donate now.

My challenge is now complete as I swam 1 mile in Europe's biggest open water event, held on Lake Windermere on the 15th June 2113.

I was hopeful that the weather would be calm this year but, unfortunately the wind intensified throughout the morning creating a strong crosswind which, not only increased my time from the expected 55 minutes to 1 hour 11 minutes, but also my perserverance and stamina!!

I would like to thank you for your support and generous donations in helping me raise over £1600 to date for Dove House Hospice which, I am sure, will benefit from your kindness. x