Our two lovely children were both born with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). CF is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system, meaning people with CF are susceptible to chest infections and chronic digestive issues. It affects more than 10,800 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.

The CF trust has offered us and many families in the UK incredible support, including resources, psychological support and legal advice. Most important perhaps, is their effort to fund research into new treatments and lobby for NHS funding to cover these when they come to market. We anticipate a bright future for our children because of the new treatments on the horizon.

I’ve been planning to participate in a fundraising event since the children were born but it has been taking a while to get back into any sort of endurance fitness. So this summer I am taking the plunge in Lake Coniston in the Lake District to complete the approx 4km iron distance swim, and in doing so raise money for the trust.

Thank you very much for any support you are able to give.