Newcastle Carers is an independent charity supporting adults, children and young people who care for someone living in Newcastle upon Tyne. Our service is free, confidential and non-judgemental, helping carers find ways to make their situation easier.

I've been lucky enough to be involved with some of their work through my job and to see the support that they offer to carers first hand. It's world class, innovative and holistic.  All the good stuff. 

I wanted to do the Great North Swim for selfish reasons.  I couldn't walk very far this time last year (and for a long time) and swimming has been difficult and hard to commit to.  Since my health has improved and I've been able to do more, I wanted a big, hairy, audacious goal to keep me motivated....and there's no way I'm doing the Great North Run, so a two-mile outdoor swim sounded perfect!  As I'm committed anyway, I thought I'd take the opportunity to support this amazing local charity, who do so much good stuff to help support people that care. 

I promise lots of horrible selfies of me looking daft in my wetsuit, updates about my winter swims as I train (it was -2 yesterday!) and to keep you updated on my health wins and losses as I train for this two mile open water swim through pool and sea swimming training. 

Wish me luck!