You may know that I had a running accident a few years ago which left me with broken bones, a ruptured liver and a subsequent hip replacement. Not being able to run anymore, I started swimming.

Swimming has been life changing for me and living by the sea - what could be better? I am so lucky to be part of a sea loving community with friends who go in the water all year round. I totally love it!

This year I have been given the opportunity to train for and swim the English Channel as part of a relay team. I have done a few events but nothing like this - I am full of excitement and trepidation.

The swim is organised by the COSMIC charity who give life saving medical care for very sick babies and their families. They are also pioneering in developing technologies which will save future lives. In common with many others, there are young people in my extended family who may not have survived infancy without the support and specialist care of organisations such as COSMIC.

You can find more information on the work of the charity including heart warming video by following these links. 

Swimming the Channel in a relay team (6 people) involves 2-4 one hour swims over a period of around 16 - 20 hours. Some of this will be at night, some may be in the company of Jellyfish! I will only be wearing a standard swimming costume, swim hat and goggles.

To qualify in June, I will need to complete a 1.5 hour swim followed by a 1 hour swim (with a break in between). I will also need to demonstrate that I can swim at night and tolerate Jellyfish stings.

My training started in January, building up stamina and improving my technique in the pool. I have also swum in the sea through the winter and now that it's getting a bit warmer, I'll be increasing distance outside.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. I will add in updates as I progress. Your support is greatly appreciated.

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.