In just over a week’s time, I am attempting to swim the Bosphorus. My application to compete in the Bosphorus Cross Continental Swim on Sunday 22 July was accepted by the Turkish Olympic Association just three weeks ago. It’s a 6.5km swim in what will be the most challenging conditions I have ever encountered – a swell, cross currents, cold currents from the Black Sea, jellyfish and a current so strong at the end that being swept past the finish is a real possibility. As some of you will know, I’ve competed in longer races in less favourable climes but never without a wetsuit. For this race, you are only allowed to wear your swimmers, your cap and goggles, and your timing chip.

Training has involved very early morning weekend trips to Thorpe and Shepperton lakes. I have trained to the distance without a wetsuit but it’s impossible to replicate the conditions I will face in Turkey.

I recently met a most inspiring lady who is a specialist nurse at Dorothy House Hospice near Bath. She has a profound and positive impact on families at a very difficult time. Dorothy House offers end of life care to patients and support to their families. For every £1 Dorothy House gets from the NHS, it has to raise £4 to continue providing its services, and I would like to support the hospice and its staff by raising money through my swim. It turns out that the specialist nurse is a fellow open water swimmer.

Knowing that I'm raising money for such a great cause makes the early morning long training swims easier and will make every stroke in the Bosphorus worth it – please dig deep...I will need to on the day.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe  - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, JustGiving send your money directly to the Dorothy House.

Thank you