Last year Ellis did a sponsored walk and raised money for a children's charity because he has always been concerned about the welfare of children in other countries. We have always tried to make him aware that he is very fortunate and last year he wanted to send money and food to the poor kids in Africa. After explaining that might be a bit difficult, he raised almost £300 by walking up the Malvern Hills - no mean feat for a child who moans that his legs hurt just walking up the drive!

This year he talked about sending some of his 'cuddlies' and toys to the kids around the world who don't have any, but as he has been having a hard time parting with anything, we came up with the idea of a sponsored swim to raise money instead. We chose swimming because he enjoys a challenge and it will be a mammoth challenge for him.

Late last year Ellis began swimming lessons at Splash in Malvern, and never having been very comfortable in water, he would not get his face wet. He hated being splashed and progress during lessons was slow. However, one lesson, about 3 months ago, he decided just to go for it...and he now spends most of his lessons underwater, ignoring what the teacher is trying to tell him! He has come on very quickly since then and was moved up to the next stage in March. What he lacks in technical ability, he more than makes up for in effort and perseverance!

So we are hoping that he will be able to do 10 lengths at Splash on Saturday July 23rd, and we hope that he will be able to raise even more money this year, for a very worthy charity that will be able to help some less fortunate children on Ellis's behalf.

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