In September 2020, I swam across the Channel in a relay with five amazing teammates, raising money for Aspire. Aspire support people who have had a spinal cord injury, where permanent damage is caused to a spinal cord, paralysing the individual to varying degrees. It is a cause very close to my heart as my best friend's sister Sara suffered one in March 2019. It was not something I knew a huge amount about, but quickly learnt the impact it can have on someone and those around them. I am pleased to say Sara is doing amazingly well now.

Aspire work with people to make the necessary practical changes in their life, assist with financial questions and support physical rehabilitation and mental health. Like so many charities they have been massively impacted by the pandemic. 

This year, I wanted to take on some new challenges, but wasn't sure what. Amazingly, Aspire have offered me spaces on three swims in 2021: 

1. Loch Lomond relay - 39km, and up to 190m deep with temperatures as low as 11 degrees Celsius - a change from the original plan of Loch Ness due to Covid related reasons. I haven't actually met my team mates but will do soon! 

2. Solo from Sealand Municipality to the coast - 12km. This is an old disused fortress off the Suffolk coast, and is a country in it's own right! I will be one of the first women to do this swim. 

3. Isles of Scilly swim - 15km. This is run by SwimQuest, and involves swims between each of the islands, with walks across them. It's over two days, and I will be doing it with two friends. 

I am conscious so many people were incredibly generous last year. COVID depending, I am hoping to be able to run some events for fundraising. You can follow my progress on Instagram @pollyroseburns, and I will post updates here too. 

Thank you to everyone for their ongoing support and any donations!