I have not embarked on a sponsored event for nearly fifty years because I absolutely hate asking for money, however the death of my elder brother Lin from cancer in late 2019 has inspired me to participate in the Swimathon Triple 5k challenge.  In recognition of the amazing support and incredible compassion he was given by various cancer charities I would like to give something back to help others. I have always swum, but never been an endurance swimmer, so swimming 200 lengths of a 25m pool on three consecutive days (15km in total) will be an immense challenge for me, but nothing compared to the challenges those with cancer face.  

I am training in earnest for the challenge and my swimming friends will have noticed that I no longer just exercise my jaw in the pool!  The rest of my body is gradually getting fitter, and when the time comes to do the challenge if my limbs gets tired, I will swim with my heart.   A big thank you to all those at Romsey Rapids (swimmers and staff) because without their encouragement and help with training I would not be able to take on this challenge.  Thank you also to my family and friends for all their support.

Even when my brother was fighting cancer, he was still raising money for various cancer organisations to help others, so this challenge is the least I can do. Thank you for taking the time to read this and if you feel moved to spare a few pennies for this fantastic cause your kindness would be greatly appreciated. 

Thank you,
Nicky

Cancer Research UK, the world’s leading cancer charity is dedicated to saving lives through funding research to help prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. Cancer Research UK are the only charity fighting over 200 cancer types but don't receive any government funding for their work, so their progress is all thanks to the support of people like you.

Marie Curie provides expert care, guidance and support for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. Around 2,100 Marie Curie Nurses work day and night, in people’s homes all over the UK, providing hands-on care to people when they need it most.