Helen & Douglas House is a home from home for local terminally ill children and their families. They provide round-the-clock care in a warm, loving environment. They’re a comforting cocoon filled with laughter, a peaceful place where families can create happy memories in their last days, weeks, months or years together.

The Helen House charity provided truly amazing help and support to a close friend mine, Simon Kershaw and his family when they needed it the most. Olivia, his daughter, is just over a year old now and is absolutely beautiful but she has had such a difficult start in life. 

The parasite toxoplamosis found its way to her before she was born. The parasite caused inflammation in her brain and eyes. She was transported in an ambulance under blue lights 11 times during this time. Olivia was discharged on 19 December 2016 just in time for Christmas. Her medication included toxic chemicals akin to chemotherapy drugs that she took until her first birthday as well as some supplements to counter the side-effects of the drugs as well as eye drops that must be given four times a day. 

Since leaving the hospital the roller coaster ride has not stopped. At the moment Olivia is expected to live to between 20-30 years old as a result of seizures and the toll they take and this is why Helen House has agreed to take on Olivia. Helen House is a wonderful place that Olivia will love. It has great facilities such as a hydrotherapy tub and a sensory stimulation room. They have recently lost their physiotherapist due to cost and are now looking for a music therapist. This highlights how they are struggling to meet their running costs and I am keen to create as huge as possible a contribution to a deserving charity. 

It is for Olivia and all of these reasons why I would like to raise money for the Helen and Douglas House Children's Hospice. I hope my attempt to swim 22 miles across the English Channel whilst avoiding passing ships and jellyfish will encourage you to please donate generously! 

Thank you for your support.