I have decided to challenge myself by pledging to swim 5,000m at this year's Swimathon event.  To put it in context, this is 250 lengths of Bannatynes' 20m pool (I usually swim 50 lengths). Beaumont will also join me for the last 500m (he recently completed his 400m badge, so this will be a challenge for him too). We would be VERY grateful if you would sponsor us therefore.

Over the last 6-12 months, I have tried hard to get my fitness and body back to pre-motherhood levels and although I still have a way to go, I think the 5K swim is a great milestone in my journey. I have always enjoyed swimming and firmly believe it is the best form of exercise. 

Given cancer affects every family, I hope by completing this challenge, my friends and family will join me in supporting Marie Curie and Cancer Research (and the Swimathon Foundation) by sponsoring me and Beaumont. The more we raise, the more determined we will be to swim those last lengths!  For friends and family who knew the legend that was Harvey Sladden, you will also know that Marie Curie helps people with any form of terminal illness, not just cancer, so I am particularly pleased to be supporting this very worthwhile charity.

Thank you in advance for your support.  If you'd like to come and cheer us on, you would be very welcome. Please just let me know, so I can arrange with the club for you to be there.

Here's a bit of background about the charities......

Cancer Research UK, the world's leading cancer charity is dedicated to saving lives through research. They don't receive any government funding for their work, so their progress is all thanks to the support of people like you. 

Marie Curie provides expert care, guidance and support for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. Around 2,100 Marie Curie Nurses work day and night, in peoples' homes all over the UK, providing hands-on care to people when they need it most.

On 27th - 29th March, over 21,000 swimmers will be heading to over 600 pools across the UK to raise money for our two amazing charity partners. Together we can really make a difference.