In recognition of Spina Bifida Awareness Week, and because SHINE is one of the most worthwhile causes you could possibly support, Laura and I have decided to realise a life long ambition and SWIM (the equivalent of) THE ENGLISH CHANNEL (in Bungay and Beccles swimming pools).

Whilst this feat alone means that we will most likely face mild congestion, old plasters and the strong possibility of getting verrucas, we felt this level of physical hardship may be insufficient to induce you to sponsor our endeavours. As such, we have decided to up the ante by completing a portion of our distance in the unheated waters of Beccles Lido. Whilst not an international shipping lane, it is a) quite cold and b) occasionally contains aggressive people training for triathalons.

The challenge is real...and most importantly by sponsoring two middle aged women to wear goggles and plough up and down a range of public swimming pools, you will help SHINE to provide expert health advice, visit schools to train teachers, run family events, be on hand in hospitals to offer support and continue campaigning for better prevention and clinical care for anyone with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.

Please give generously to an organisation Laura is so incredibly proud to work for that she has recruited me, her friend who has never had a swimming lesson in her life, to join her on this challenge and either half drown or learn front crawl - the world is genuinely a better place because SHINE exists.

You can visit Laura's Page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/middleagedwomengoswimming