I’m currently in remission from multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer which is currently incurable but treatable. I had planned to do this swim three years ago but health issues stopped play. I am so thankful to Birch Ward, Bracken Ward and the Mustard Tree for all the treatment, care and support and therefore I would like to raise funds which will be split between the Birch and Bracken fund and The Mustard Tree fund which is part of Macmillan. The Mustard Tree provides support to those who are affected by a cancer diagnosis and their families. It is an invaluable resource in Derriford Hospital. The Mustard Tree at Derriford provides a comfortable environment for patients, relatives and carers and they offer a multitude of services and support. They helped me build my confidence in 2023 to recommence sea swimming via Chill South Devon whilst I was undergoing treatment which means that I have been able to build up strength and confidence to swim longer distances hence taking part in this challenge. I have clinic and fortnightly infusions in Birch Ward. The staff are phenomenal and look after everyone so patiently and make the treatment time fly by.

My story is; In 2019 I was diagnosed with smouldering myeloma, a type of blood cancer which affects bone marrow. At that time I was feeling fatigued but had no other symptoms. I started quarterly monitoring at Derriford Hospital. I started sea swimming during COVID having never really being out of my depth previously. Having myeloma means that I have a weakened immune system therefore I needed to shield during COVID. In May 2023 I became increasingly unwell, was admitted to hospital with sepsis and developed pneumonia. Thankfully due to the care I received at Derriford I attended my nieces wedding in Northern Ireland in June 2023. My condition worsened however and in August 2023 I was advised after a MRI scan that I had multiple myeloma with lesions in my spine and pelvis. Within days I was offered treatment via a clinical trial which I am still on and after several rounds of chemotherapy I had a stem cell transplant in February 2024 in Bracken Ward. My care has been marvellous under the care of my consultant Dr Hannah Hunter, her team and the Research team. Thankfully I am in remission but still have immunotherapy in Birch ward every 2 weeks to hopefully keep the disease at bay for as long as possible.

For information as the StMichaels Mount swim is being organised for the Chestnut Appeal, another very deserving charity at Derriford I have a separate fundraising page should anyone wish to donate to this charity via Givengain.

I’m also swimming 2.4km from Noss Mayo to Cellars Beach down the Yealm on 13th August and then in September from Torquay on a 1 mile swim to Meadfoot Beach. During the winter I will be also taking part in the Polar Bear Challenge to swim 3000 metres each month through the winter.

Thank you in anticipation.