In July 2025, I will be one of 6 people in my team swimming the English Channel as part of a relay for the charity; Aspire. Aspire is a national charity that provides practical help to people who have been paralysed by Spinal Cord Injury.

Each of us will be taking it in turns to swim for one hour at a time in order to cover the approx. 22 miles, from Dover to France. We will be adhering to the channel swim association rules to make the crossing and therefore we will not be wearing wetsuits, only a standard swimming costume, goggles, swim hat and ear plugs.

Those who know me, already know that I have been diagnosed with a number of issues with a couple of my lower vertebrae (osteoarthritis, bulging discs and a haemangioma). Open water swimming has been amazing for both my mental and physical health. I suffered with my mental health due to my back issues and didn't realise how lucky I was that I could still do a number of things I enjoy! Those who have suffered a Spinal Cord Injury are not so lucky and I want to help as much as possible.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.