In 2008, Dave faced his first battle with cancer when it was discovered in his bowel. Thankfully, it was successfully removed, and life carried on. But in early 2023, things took a heartbreaking turn. After a series of tests, Dave was diagnosed with multiple secondary neuroendocrine tumors—a rare, incurable form of cancer that has spread to his liver, lymph nodes, bowel, stomach, and bones. At just 57, this news has been devastating.

Since June 2023, Dave has been receiving hormone injections every month to slow the tumors’ growth. When this approach didn’t produce the hoped-for results, the treatment was intensified to injections every three weeks. Thankfully, this adjustment seems to be working for now; Dave’s condition has stabilized, and recent tests show no significant tumor growth. However, this treatment is only temporary. It’s expected to hold for a few more months before the cancer becomes resistant, at which point he’ll need to start PRRT—a type of targeted radiotherapy.

None of this will cure Dave. The treatments are palliative, aimed at extending his life as long as possible—a tough reality to accept. But for now, we’re focused on living each day as it comes, finding joy where we can, and making the most of the time we have left together. Life has changed drastically, bringing challenges we never imagined, but we’re determined to find moments of happiness despite it all.

To support research into this rare form of cancer, I’m raising funds for Neuroendocrine Cancer UK. My challenge? A daily dip in the sea for an entire year! I’ve been sea swimming for a couple of years now, but this time, I’m pushing myself to take the plunge every single day (and drag Dave in at least once a month!). Some winter days might mean a quick jump, but I’m committed to showing up, rain or shine. If storms, illness, or travel prevent me from swimming, I’ll double up on other days to hit my goal of at least 365 dips between October 9, 2023, and October 9, 2024.

I’m hoping friends, family, and even people across the country will join me for a dip here and there—or take their own distant plunge and share a picture! We’ll make it fun with silly hats, special celebrations, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Please help us in the fight against neuroendocrine cancer by donating to this cause. Together, we can make a difference.