During the month of March, I will be swimming a mile every day to raise funds for a charity that's close to my heart - the centre for Brain Injury, Rehabilitation and Development (B.I.R.D).

Founded by my late father, Dr David McGlown - who passed away almost two years ago - this remarkable small charity has been transforming the lives of children and adults with neurological conditions since 1982.

As for a lot of smaller good causes, attracting funding is a constant challenge for B.I.R.D. and its dedicated band of staff and volunteers. But the struggle is worthwhile as every year its unique therapy programme unlocks the potential in hundreds of people with brain injuries and learning difficulties.

For almost all of the people B.I.R.D. treats, it was previously thought that no further improvement was possible and all avenues available via health services have been fully explored. Nevertheless, the charity  markedly and measurably improves the lives of just over 90% of the people it treats through 'developmental, reflexive rehabilitation'. ]]

My dad pioneered this treatment and devoted his life to it. It's in his memory that I'm committing to swim a mile every single day in March, either at David Lloyd in Colchester or the London Aquatics Centre in Stratford (near to where I work). I've never taken on a swimming challenge quite like this before and at 47 years of age my physical fitness will be sorely tested. If for any reason I can't swim on one of the days (e.g. through work commitments), I'll swim two miles the next day.

Please support me with whatever money you can spare.

Thank you. Martin