I'm gearing up for the biggest challenge of my life in July 2024 – swimming the English Channel with the remarkable Mencap Marvels. Our squad includes myself and three awe-inspiring swimmers, backed by an exceptional support crew.

Under the stringent guidelines of the Channel Association, we'll be swimming with only swimsuits, goggles, and hats – no floats or wetsuits allowed. Our journey kicks off in Dover, where we'll take turns swimming for an hour toward France until we reach our destination.

Scheduled to start at the crack of dawn, we're not only hitting the regular training but also practicing night swims. Our final qualifying test is a two-hour 'Skins' swim in early June, no wetsuits, in sea temperatures below 15.5 degrees Celsius, closely monitored by the Channel Association. Success here grants us the official license for the channel swim attempt.

Come July, we'll be on standby for a week, ready to go at a moment's notice when the pilot gives the thumbs-up for favorable conditions in Dover.

I'm immensely proud to have been accepted onto this incredible team, constantly inspired by Keith, Dani, Amanda, and Claire during our training sessions.

Our mission is to raise funds for Mencap, an organisation striving for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with learning disabilities to live happy and healthy lives. Mencap faces dire funding challenges, and every penny we raise during our grueling swim will go toward helping those who endure tough days, every day of their lives.

I completely understand that times are challenging, and finances might be tight, but any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant impact. For anyone unable to donate, your support and well-wishes will be just as welcome.

So, as they say in France, On y va! 🏊🏻‍♂️…🇫🇷

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