As a family, we will each be taking on the Aspire Channel Swim 2017. This involves swimming the distance of the Channel over 12 weeks to raise money for Aspire. 

As some of you may know, Harry underwent an extremely serious back operation following a skiing accident in Italy in April this year. Fortunately, Harry was very lucky and narrowly missed injuring his spinal cord, which could have left him in a life changing condition. Others aren't as lucky as Harry and every eight hours someone is paralysed by a spinal cord injury. Aspire provides the essential equipment, advice, housing and grants that spinal cord injured people need to live their lives independently. 

Nevertheless, following the accident, Harry's day-to-day life was changed dramatically and he has taken time off from his beloved passion for sport to enable his back to recover from the surgery. After enduring the painful operation, being sofa bound, wearing a supportive corset and only being able to walk short distances, Harry is delighted to be having his first round of physio in the upcoming weeks. The Doctor has also agreed that Harry is able to begin swimming to aid his recovery. Supported by ex-regional swimmer, Olly, Harry is extremely grateful to have the opportunity to slowly get back into his sport to fulfil his dream of becoming a PE Teacher.

As a close family, we wanted to do something to firstly support Harry in his individual recovery and this challenge provides him with a target to aim for over a period of weeks. Secondly, we know first-hand the sheer amount of distress that we have had to endure as a family due to this injury. However, following the success of the surgery with the incredible staff out in Italy, as well as the help from our wonderful family and friends, we have fortunately been tremendously lucky. Therefore, we want to support others who may have to go through similar experiences as us or those who may be sadly forced to endure spinal injuries for the rest of their lives. 

This is a big challenge, but it is vital to support such an important cause which is so close to all of our hearts. Please donate any amount you may have, as every bit of support helps to make a huge difference. 

Thank you,

Gabriella, Lorraine, Olly and Harry.