Hi Everyone,

As you might know, in April 2003, my younger brother, Sean was the victim of an unprovoked attack. His attackers (a father and son) rendered him unconcious and then stamped on his poor head.

As a result, he was left severely brain damaged and the last three and a half years have been a relentless run of endless brain surgery and hospital internments. He remains in hospital to this day although he continues to improve steadily.

I swam the English Channel in 2005 to raise money and awareness for Headway, the brain injury charity and have decided to tackle the Cook Strait, the 19 mile crossing between North and South island of New Zealand, notorious for its high winds, extreme cold temperature, few suitable tides and of course, the ever present danger of sharks!!

If i'm successful with this swim I would be the first Scottish person to make this crossing which makes it even more nerve wracking!

This time, i'm not only swimming for Headway but also for the charities: 'Epilepsy Action' and 'Epilepsy Scotland' as Sean suffers from serious and as yet uncontrolled seizure activity due to his brain injury. I also have epilepsy which, thankfully, is controlled by medication.

I appreciate all support and help that I recieved on the lead up to the Channel and that I have recieved so far for this swim and thank anyone who wishes to donate to the appeal,

Thank you again,

Jane :o)