Hello everyone! We’re twins, Georgia and Melissa Laurie. You may have heard about us before when our story of survival and unbreakable bond went viral.

On June 6th, 2021, we were swimming in a river that was deemed ‘safe’ off the Manialtepec Lagoon in Mexico. What began as a fun excursion with friends to see the bioluminescence almost ended in tragedy when a crocodile attacked Melissa, three times.

I fought relentlessly to keep her alive by punching the crocodile off her. Eventually, it went away, and a passing boat rescued us. From there, it was a 25-minute ride to the shore, during which Melissa fought her own battle for survival. Fortunately, an ambulance had been called ahead, where it was awaiting our arrival to take us on a further 20-minute journey to Hospital Ángel del Mar.

Melissa sustained a complicated open wrist fracture, severe puncture wounds to the stomach, bowel, and intestines, and many bite injuries to her leg, foot, and glutes. After emergency surgery, she was placed in a medically induced coma, but unfortunately, during this time, she developed sepsis.

However, we never gave up hope, and with determination and incredible medical support, Melissa beat the odds and was strong enough to be woken from her coma, where since she has made a full physical recovery.

This year, on August 11th, my twin sister and I are swimming the Thames marathon to raise money for charity. We have chosen two causes close to our hearts - PTSD UK and Compañeros En Salud.

PTSD UK is the only charity in the UK dedicated to raising awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, which we have both suffered the effects of. We know how debilitating this condition can be and how many people worldwide are navigating their lives without the support they need. It is our hope that we will be able to shine a light on the amazing work this charity does.

Compañeros En Salud is a vital charity in Mexico, providing essential aid and medical training to impoverished communities in Chiapas. Having spent six weeks here prior to the incident, we feel a profound connection to the region and would like to help its people.

We know first-hand that without the tireless efforts of the Mexican doctors and nurses, Melissa may not have survived. Our experience in Mexico underscores the critical need for accessible healthcare and emergency infrastructure. Given Chiapas’ status as one of Mexico’s poorest states, our support could significantly impact the lives of those in the most disadvantaged communities. Basic healthcare is a fundamental right for every individual, and it is our aim to facilitate access to it.

We understand that money is tight for so many people at the moment, but any contribution to either cause would mean the world to us. Thank you once again for your unwavering support during our ordeal. Now, it’s our time to pay it forward, and make a positive impact alongside these charities. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless individuals in need.