Three years ago my mum was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's. She has struggled bravely with her condition and it has been heart-breaking to watch her decline over the years.

Whilst there is no cure at present, research continues to find one and to support people and their families who are affected by this disease.

I want to do my bit to help therefore I have decided to do two swimming challenges in July 2017.

1) I am taking part in a team channel swim. As part of a team of four, I will be aiming to swim from Dover to Calais during the first week in July (the actual date and timing of the swim will depend on tides and weather conditions).

2) I am also going to try to swim 50K in 5 days (10K per day) at Heron Lake. I will be attempting this challenge with my friend Juliette. We will be starting on July 22nd.