On the 19th July, I am swimming 24km, down a pristine but as of last week freezing river in the wilds of Finland with my good friend Giles Lovegrove.

We will be raising money for Sue Ryder.

My mother passed away from Mesothelioma in 2019. Such a terrible disease and such a horrible way to go. She died in a Sue Ryder home, cared for by an incredible group of people.

I will never forget listening as one of the nurses gently guided her through her final moments. They managed to bring her comfort and peace when she was filled with dread about what was to come. It reminded me of when a baby is born and how midwives gently help with a newborn, but in reverse.

This made a big difference in my grieving process.

My friend Giles is joining me. His mother-in-law, the wonderful Carol, recently died of pancreatic cancer. Who was there at the end for Carol? Sue Ryder—supporting Carol and her family.

Sue Ryder is here to ensure everyone approaching the end of their life or living with grief can access the support they need. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coping and seeking help, but with Sue Ryder's support, no one has to face dying or grief alone. They are there when it matters.