I met Shaun when we were 12 years old at high school, and we quickly became best mates. By the age of 14, I had also met Shaun’s mum, Eileen, who welcomed me into their family like a second son. Over the years, we’ve shared so many incredible memories together, including family holidays with Eileen and her wonderful husband, Mick.

Sadly, Eileen was diagnosed with Early Onset dementia, a cruel disease that has had a profound impact on everyone who loves her. Seeing first-hand the challenges it brings, both for the person living with it and their family, has made this cause deeply personal to us all.

Now it’s time to give something back.

On 20 June, I will be swimming the full length of Coniston Lake, a huge challenge covering a distance of 5.25 miles. This will involve over four hours of continuous swimming and every penny raised will go directly to the Leeds Early Onset Dementia Hub.

In conjunction with Inspire North & Carers Leeds, this incredible charity provides vital support for people living with dementia, offering a safe space to talk, connect, and support one another through such a cruel and heartbreaking disease. It also helps family members come together, share experiences, and find ways to cope with the daily challenges dementia brings.

This challenge is especially close to my heart and I want to support my second family as much as I can.

Shaun will also be taking on this incredible challenge, as well as swimming the full length of Windermere, 10.5 miles on the 23 July to raise money for the same amazing cause. I will also be swimming alongside Shaun for as much of his challenge as I can, to support him and help raise even more for this fantastic charity.

Any donation, big or small, would mean the world to us both and will help support the incredible work being done by the Young Dementia Hub.

Thank you so much to everyone who donates and supports us on this journey.