First open water swim under the belt. Can't say I was too impressed. But; it's gotta be done! 6 weeks to judgement day x

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page; it really is appreciated.  As you'll all know in June of this year I'll be taking on the challenge of completing the 'Exmoor Ironman' to raise money for charity.  The charity I have chosen is very close to my heart and goes some way to recognise the great work of my sister Gloria, my niece Louise, and the many other people out there who provide unpaid care for their loved ones.  It should come as no surprise then that the charity I have chosen is 'Carers Trust' in an attempt to acknowledge the great work of my sister and niece who have put their lives on hold, literally, to provide round the clock care for our mother and nan Margaret, who suffers from Dementia.  'CarersTrust' helps provide some kind of 'restbite' and 'time out' from the great job they do, day in day out.  The impact of this illness can have devastating effects, not only on the individual but on family members too.  Dementia didn't only take our mother's independance, health, wellbeing and dignity but the mum we once knew had gone too. This independant, respectable lady had become a shadow of her former self right before our very eyes and the fond memories we once shared became lost forever.  That was then.  Today however is a slightly different story and that's purely down to the great work of my sister and niece.  Even mum's Consultant was lost for words.  She couldn't believe the significant improvement in mum's wellbeing and although mum still requires round the clock care it feels like we've got our mum and nan back.  She's cracking the jokes, reminiscing about the good old days, sometimes acting a bit diva-ish (if that's even a word) and it feels great.  Mum's back with a vengance :))  and for that I'm eternally greatful.        

Gloria, Luby; you're both amazing and I'm so so greatful and proud of what you have achieved.  If it wasn't for you; mum wouldn't be here today.  Because of you; we've had another 6 wonderful years with our beautiful mother, grandma and great nan.  Here's to the next 6 :)  You're truly amazing; thank you.  I'm doing this for you! xxxx    

So, why the Ironman?  Well; the thought first came into my head back in July 2012 when I found myself watching the final leg of Bolton's Ironman challenge which consists of a gruelling 2.4 mile swim in open water, 112 mile bike ride, concluded by a full marathon; a gruelling - 26.2 miles.  Now you may have in your mind that such an event could only be for a certain type of person, say a professional triathlete.  Well you know what; it's not. There were people of ages, shapes and sizes taking part and although some clearly do this as a profession the majority where competing for personal achievement, raising money for worthwhile causes at the same time.  I have to say what I saw on the day totally inspired me to do something as a way of raising money; but what?  That very evening I began to research Triathlon events and before I knew it I'd paid £250 and signed up to take part in the 70.3 Ironman challenge.  That was it; no going back!  The morning after when I awoke; reality hit! "OMG what have I done?  I'd done no form of exercise for the last 4 years; what was I thinking? Were do I start?  I didn't even own a bike, I couldn't swim freestyle and hadn't run for years.  More importantly  how would I fit the hours of training around work?

That was back then, however today I'm pleased to report that all the hard work is beginning to pay off.  It's not been easy and I'd have to say it's been a rollercoaster of events but you know what?  I wouldn't change a thing!  I've sustained cuts and bruises from not only falling off my bike but falling whilst running too and our first time swimming was utter carnage; so much so the instructor sent us to the naughty corner :))

3 months on - I'd say the swimmings coming on well.  I can now come up for air and breathe (which helps)  I'm quite happy with the technique; I just need to keep working on increasing my distance over the coming months before hitting the open water in March (another story, watch this space).  We're doing in excess of 30 mile bike rides and completing 10 mile runs.  I'll continue to provide updates on my progress; so feel free to keep a check on my page.

For now, I'd like to finish off by thanking you for your time and would ask that you consider making some kind of donation for this worthwhile cause.  All proceeds no matter how big or small will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you, thank you, thank you in advance.

Love

Michelle

 

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