In June 2027 I'll be taking on Velindre's brand-new Statue of Liberty Swim Challenge. An open water swim which offers me the incredible opportunity to swim around the Statue of Liberty!

I'll be taking part in this event with the aim of raising vital funds for Velindre Cancer Centre, also known as, The Hospital of Hope. Velindre Cancer Charity provides services above NHS provisions by investing in supportive care services, funding innovative technologies, and driving forward transformative research and clinical trials.

Some may ask why I have chosen to raise the funds for Velindre Cancer Centre... Those of you who don't know me that well, might not know that in 2021 my dad (Andrew) was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer. After many surgeries and hospital stays during covid he sadly lost his battle in February 2022 at the age of 69, just 9 days shy of his 70th Birthday.

Living in Herefordshire, my dad didn't have access to Velindre but after hearing about the amazing work they do I thought WOW - if only there were more of these Centre's around and how important it is to keep this one accessible for those who are affected by cancer.

Now getting married to Nic and meeting her family and friends I have first hand stories of how well Velindre is supported and used through their experiences. Nic's dad (Kev) was a patient of Velindre for a short time before he died in 2015 and some of our close family friends are long time patients of Velindre who are, to this day, still receiving regular treatment in Velindre.

Did you know? Collectively, donations raised through the Statue Of Liberty Swim Challenge can directly support one of the 40+ clinical trials active at Velindre today – and will even fund up to 4 Clinical Nurse Specialist's salaries for a year.

Thank you for your support and reading my story!

Together, we will achieve Victory Over Cancer!

Find out more today: www.velindrefundraising.com