I signed up for this 58km non-stop, non-wetsuited sea swim around Jersey challenge in 2021.

On a training swim in 2022 I swam over a lion's mane jelly fish at my local Portobello beach in Edinburgh and was stung all over the chest. In the process of inspecting the sting I discovered a lump that was not the work of a jelly fish. 3 weeks later I had been diagnosed with breast cancer, booked in for surgery and started on hormone therapy. After 2 rounds of surgery, 16 weeks of chemotherapy, intensive radiotherapy and further preventative treatment and medication I've gradually re-built my life.

It was important to me to return to things that were not possible during treatment including this swimming challenge. It has taken 2 years to carefully build back my swim fitness to be ready whilst also balancing my recovery needs. I am so grateful I was able to successfully complete the challenge on Saturday 18 July! It took 11 hours 41 mins with a large helping hand from the formidable Jersey tides and currents.

This swim is dedicated to the amazing NHS staff at the Western General Hospital and my local Colinton GP surgery. Their swift interventions, expertise and support are the reason I am here and was able to finally complete this swim.

I have requested that all money raised via this page go to the Breast Cancer Institute of Edinburgh at the Western General Hospital Fund S03181. This Fund is held within and managed by NHS Lothian Charity and is locally administered by stewards with strong links to the Edinburgh Breast Unit. The Fund supports education and knowledge sharing, the purchase of medical and scientific equipment, breast cancer research, plus the enhancement of the patient environment and experience within the Edinburgh Breast Unit. This is in addition to what is provided by NHS Lothian.

Thank you so much for your support! It means so much to me!