Almost two years ago I found the first bald patch on the back of my head. At first I thought it was a bad haircut, but it slowly spread and I was diagnosed with alopecia. It's taken a while to get used to it. Now I see it as something that I have no control over - it's my body's own unique form of artwork. Alopecia-UK provides crucial support and advice to those with alopecia, including by organising an annual trip to Alton Towers. You can read more about my story here: http://www.alopeciaonline.org.uk/Rob.asp. 

Swimming gives me lots of joy, but I've never done anything like this, so I'm looking forward to the challenge, but also slightly terrified of swimming for almost 2 hours in 12 degrees water. Read more about the swim here: https://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com/bantham-swoosh-swim/