Quite a bold challenge to swim the English Channel, even as part of a relay team, but if you know me, you’ll know that sea swimming is my favourite activity, no matter the temperature.

I’ve been swimming in the sea my whole life, with two passionate swimming parents guiding the way. When I hit my twenties and had to undergo a series of 10 orthopaedic surgeries, which left me very immobile, swimming was my saving grace.

The freedom and joy the sea brings me is something I think everyone should have the chance to experience. Sadly, for many living in disadvantaged communities around the world, there is no access to swimming lessons, which contributes to the 360,000 lives lost to drowning incidents every year—many of them children. That's why I’m raising money for SwimTayka.

SwimTayka's mission is to give disadvantaged communities worldwide access to swimming teachers who not only provide life-saving swimming skills but also create a legacy for today’s children, who will go on to teach the next generation.

Any donations however big or small will be greatly appreciated.