So...despite having barely swam for the last nine years (I'd say I've probably done a maximum of ten sessions in that period), I had a standard Mercedes moment of madness and agreed to sign up for Swimathon 2020. Thinking 1.5k wouldn't be a challenge enough to inspire you brilliant people to sponsor me, I grudgingly signed up to the 5k of death. I have since discovered I have a mere two hours to complete it in, a 3500 word uni deadline due on the same day and next to no time to squeeze in any training...whoopee!

However, I'm not backing down, because I didn't sign up for myself, I signed up to help kick cancer's ass to the curb.

In September 2018, my sister found out she had stage 1 cancer. She was one of the lucky ones, she was diagnosed early giving the dedicated team of doctors who took care of her the best opportunity to ensure it had no chance.

Not everyone has been as fortunate, I've seen cancer wreck havoc on the lives of far too many people that I love and that's why I'm not walking away from this challenge.

Cancer Research UK is the only UK charity fighting over 200 types of cancer, focusing on prevention, diagnosis and treatment. However, they don't receive any government funding for their work, work which has helped save countless lives and could protect even more with the right support. I want others to be as fortunate as we were and that is what is going to keep me going during that 5k swim with a deadline looming over my head and probably next to no training under my belt.

A portion of the funds I raise will also be going towards Marie Curie who provide expert care, guidance and support for people living with  terminal illnesses, including cancer. They also deliver assistance to the families of these individuals at every step of that journey. My hope is that no one ever has to access an organisation like this, but the reality is sadly that's not the case for thousands of people everyday. This support is vital for so many and whilst I know my personal motivation for taking on this challenge is primarily to support the work of Cancer Research UK, I'm happy for 50% of the funds I raise to go towards this incredible organisation. I was lucky not to need an organisation like this, but Marie Curie really does make a difference to those who need to turn to them.

Thanks for taking the time to read my essay of a 'story', possibly laugh and/or pity me for the chaos I'm going to put myself through, and hopefully and more importantly sponsor me in support of these amazing charities!

Now, wish me luck...5k swim, here I come!

xxx

Message from the team at Swimathon UK

On the 27th - 29th March, over 21,000 swimmers will be heading down to over 600 pools across the UK to raise money for our two amazing charity partners: Cancer Research UK and Marie Curie.

Together we can really make a difference. We invite our swimmers to tell their story to help spread awareness and raise vital funds for these two incredible causes.