Why?

We've all been there. It's Sunday morning and the sunlight hits your weary, confused eyes forcing you to move your heavy head to find shade only to realize the alcohol content in your blood has rendered your body impervious to physical movement. You slowly stir as your bones feel heavy and muscles sore from the night's sleep you didn't have. Memories from last night start to form; the good intentions, the one drink too many, the shots... and the bet you made to swim the channel when you can hardly get across a swimming pool without losing the will to live. 

Who am I supporting and why?

My uncle Chris was an extremely fit, active and all round great guy. Unfortunately, very unexpectedly at age 46 he suffered a huge stroke. The stroke happened on Fathers Day whilst he was out cycling and changed his life forever. There were times in the days and months after where the family were told he had no chance of surviving, but incredibly (and unsurprisingly for those that know Chris), he did.

Chris, however, has very extensive brain damage and although he's made great lengths physically (learning how to walk again from being paralyzed down one side), his communication skills were severely impacted.

Chris suffers from a condition called Aphasia that means he is unable to speak or write, leaving even basic communication extremely difficult for him. Chris has been working with a fantastic charity called the North East Trust for Aphasia now for some years, which had dramatically improved his quality of life: helping him find new and innovative ways of getting his message across, and providing weekly courses in various disciplines, helping him find new hobbies in art, photography and music.

What's the plan? 

Basically, a lot of swimming. As of this moment (Feb '16) I am having swimming lessons and am practicing in the pool. I will give updates on the fund raising page with progress. 

Given that the swim will take between 14-26 hours, I thought creating a playlist might be a good way to pass the time while at sea. If you can suggest a song or two along with your donation in the comments page, I will add it to the set! 

So far we have (in no particular order): 

1. "Chariots of Fire" - London Symphony Orchestra

2. "Bullet Proof" - La Roux

3. "Feeling Good" - Nina Simone

4. "Best Day of My Life" - American Authors

5. "Budapest "George Ezra"

6. "Wake Me Up" - Avicii 

7. "Bonkers" - Dizzee Rascal 

8. "Lose Yourself" - Eminem 

9. "Rip Tide" - Vance Joy

10. "Prayer in C" - Robin Schulz

11. "We Will Rock You" - Queen

12. "Eye of the Tiger" - Survivor

13. "Better Harder Faster Stronger" Daft Punk

14. "Sick Travellin'" - Fritz Kalkbrenner 

Thanks for your support!