This October, I'm swimming 8K to raise money for GOSH Charity. Every day, more than 750 seriously ill children and young people from across the UK arrive at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). Every day, doctors and nurses battle the most complex illnesses and conditions and come together to achieve pioneering medical breakthroughs.This extraordinary hospital has always depended on charitable support to give seriously ill children the best chance to fulfil their potential.

Back in 1999 I started my training to become a Children’s nurse at Great Ormond Street, I have cared for many children and families there, most of which will be grown ups themselves now, and sadly I met and cared for many that were taken too soon. 

My children attend our local school and we have seen  a wonderful  family lose their beloved daughter Orla Tuckwell. I now work at PAH where Orla was cared for and loved by many colleagues. 

When I saw the 8k swim challenge I felt there was no reasonable excuse to not sign up, I needed to get fitter, but have seen the strength and courage shown by Orla, her sisters and her family throughout her illness. 

I am hoping to go way beyond 8k so will keep you posted how far I get. But each lap I will be thinking of the children and families that need that push to fight and the money that they need to help them towards recovery. ❤️‍🩹💛💙