I am doing this swim in memory of my lovely friend, Alina Clark, who sadly passed away last year aged just 37 years old. She left behind a gorgeous little girl, Emily, who was only 5 years old at the time, and an amazing husband, Andy. Alina was a wonderful friend, I met her whilst working at Wirral Community NHS Foundation Trust, she took me under her wing as I started a new career path in Project Management, I instantly warmed to her and we became great friends. We shared our maternity leave together as I had my son, Jacob, 10 weeks before she had Emily. It was amazing seeing our children growing up together, and we helped each other out daily with numerous questions and challenges involving the children!

Alina was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer at the age of 32, when Emily was only 10 months old. Understandably, everyone was devastated by the news, but Alina dealt with this news in true Alina style, with the utmost courage, strength, positivity and a can-do attitude and she always had a smile on her face, even on the darkest of days – I was in awe of Alina and totally admired her in everything that she did.

I was heartbroken the day Alina passed away. She left footprints on the hearts of everybody she met. She lit up a room with her smile and her infectious laugh, she was one of the kindest people I have ever met, her strength inspired me. I often ask myself ‘what would Alina do?’ as she continues to guide me with life’s challenges on a work and personal level. She’ll always be one of my most favourite people and I will forever cherish the friendship we had.

Alina had an amazing team at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre looking after her, she made friends with the staff there and she always knew she was in good hands, she couldn’t speak highly enough of the staff. Alina was looked after by one of the country’s leading cancer specialists at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool. One of her wishes was that she would get see Emily start primary school, she did get to see this day and I believe this is partly due to Alina’s positive outlook throughout her journey, but also due to the amazing treatment and care she received from the Clatterbridge team.

I am doing this swim in memory of Alina, and to raise funds for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, so that they can continue to provide amazing care, in the same way that they did for my wonderful friend, Alina.

Alina didn’t fight breast cancer, she danced with it. Miss you lots Eileen xx

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