In July, I’m swimming 31 miles, one mile for every day of the month, to raise money for Mission Remission. That's a whooping 1,984 lengths!

And believe me - this challenge is personal.

In October 2024, I was diagnosed with anal cancer. I completed 28 days of chemoradiotherapy in January 2025, and since then I’ve been rebuilding my body, my confidence, and my trust in myself, one swim at a time.

Swimming has become a huge part of my recovery. It’s where I feel strong again. It’s where I can move without pressure, breathe properly, and remind myself that my body is still capable of amazing things, even after everything it has been through.

So maybe swimming 31 miles in July such a challenge but let me assure you it absolutely is! I swim on average 3 miles a week - sometimes 4 but certainly never 7!

But you know what - I need a challenge and this is it!!!

Want to know the why? Because Mission Remission supports people living with and beyond cancer. They understand that finishing treatment doesn’t mean everything magically goes back to normal.

There can be fear, fatigue, financial worries, body changes, emotional wobbles, and that strange feeling of trying to rebuild a life after cancer while everyone else assumes the hard part is over.

That’s why their work matters so much and not just to me!

I’m doing this swim to celebrate recovery, raise awareness of life after cancer, and help Mission Remission continue supporting people who need to feel less alone.

If you can donate, I’d be so grateful. Every pound helps Mission Remission keep doing this vital work.

And if you swim, you can join me or I might want someone who will swim a mile for Ali - in-case there are days when this challenge is a little too much!

Lots of love,

Ali x