In January my mum passed away after a lengthy battle with alcoholism. This experience has had a profound impact on me and my sister.

Our mum was a quiet, kind and caring soul. Unfortunately, she was plagued with trauma which resulted in years of alcohol abuse. Our childhood was fantastic, and I can't fault my mum for those early years. The values that she instilled in us, I still carry with me as an adult.

Mums drinking impacted the entire family, inparticular my sister and I. Who, in our early teenage years, through to adulthood watched the mum we knew fade away.

I must note that we remained in contact and still visited her up until her death.

For a child to comprehend the complexity of this situation is almost impossible to explain. Support is crucial in order for those affected to know that things will be OK. For me personally, the water has brought me a sense of peace and calm. Surfs, pool swims, outdoor swimming. I always feel better after I've partaken in my 'water therapy'.

That's why I have decided to swim 10 miles in October in order to raise money for NACOA. (A little bit about the charity at the bottom of the page)

*I will be swimming 3 to 4 times weekly in and around working full time.

*I will track and share my weekly progress

Thank you for reading my story.

Matt. X

Nacoa (The National Association for Children of Alcoholics) is a Bristol based charity founded in 1990 to provide help and support for everyone affected by a parent’s drinking.

We believe that every child has the right to a happy childhood and to live a creative and meaningful life but when drink is the family secret they are more likely to experience family violence, neglect and other problems in their own homes.

*Update* day 1 of my challenge, I kicked it off with a 1.5 mile swim this morning. I'll upload some photos of the data from today's activity. I'd like to thank every single person who has donated so far, thanks to your kindness and generosity the target has almost doubled. Thank you so much. X