Dear friends and family,

I have decided to swim the epic 14km Henley Thames Marathon on Sunday 15^th August for King Edward VII’s Hospital (KEVII).

Having served in Her Majesty's Armed Forces, specifically the 3rd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment,  I unfortunately suffered many injuries both physically and psychologically. I served in the Falklands War aged 18 years old , and sadly saw fellow comrades either killed in action or suffer life-changing injuries, thus causing severe survival guilt. After returning, I also suffered from PTSD and decided to leave the regiment for my health, I was in a bad place, my Para career was sadly over. I loved the regiment, we were a loyal band of brothers for sure, the proudest regiment in the British Army and I was part of that machine, ready for anything. However I ended up in Civi Street with no job and no future.

My health deteriorated and I turned to alcohol as a form of escape and sadly my my marriage fell apart due to my illness , I ended up being prescribed psychotic medication which led me to a more depressive  state.  Luckily, I had my faith which saved me . My faith is very important to me as is the love of my swimming, cycling and my garden.
I’m  now swimming,  most days. I am in a very different place to where I once was. Swimming suppresses my PTSD and is great for my mental wellbeing. I feel I’ve achieved success and suppressed the demons laying beneath within me. I’m in a different mind set in the sea. The best medication one can get and its free!

Ive got a great understanding GP Nick Woodhall, he’s supported me over the last 4 years. I owe him a great deal in all that he has done for me ….and he kindly supported me applying for the Grant .. top GP …👍

Ive been having physio …. And physical exercises to do by the expert guidance of Professor Nick Webborn and Paul , a great Physio and fellow swimmer at Sportswise , massive thanks ….. to Sportswise team ………for helping me along the way …. 

Ive raised funds for the RBL & . SSAFA …& Help for hero’s  over the years ……..for wounded veterans and there families …….. 3 years ago I raised over £655 .. for SSAFA in which it was to help a local family in need … 

A great swim was had that day ……….. 

I’ve had back, knee, and shoulder surgery and most recently hernia and testicle operation due to chronic pain. I was lucky enough to receive the hernia and testicle operation due to a Grant
given to me by KEVII. After seeing many consultants to find the cause of my pain and told it was psychological, it was Professor Ralph and his team at the hospital who diagnosed and operate within a matter of months…. A massive thanks to Professor Ralph and his medical team … absolutely top drawer, to start to finish …… 👍

I have been training for over a year throughout the bitter cold months  and unfortunately through yet more injuries, my shoulder to be specific, which may result in me swimming one armed. However, I
am beyond determined to complete this challenge, not just for me, but more importantly for my fellow comrades and  for any vets suffering, please contact King Edwards VII’s Hospital…….. an amazing hospital.. 

I am beyond thankful to what the team at King Edwards did for me, if you are able to spare a few pennies, I would be extremely grateful.

I soldier on, I shall conquer the swim, regardless … of the pain .I thank each and everyone of you for supporting this worthy charity at King Edwards VII's Hospitail …..

My very Best Wishes to you all and I thank you dearly for sponsoring me  and this great charity within the hospital….. God bless you all.

Andrew🙏……