Hello everyone my name is Joanne Rice.

People that know me know I do alot of work for Marie Curie.

I've raised thousands of pounds for them as They are all amazing in my eyes.

They helped my friend, and also helped my mother in law when she needed them the most.

My son did the grand canyon trek and my husband did the Canadian rockies trek.

When I booked this swim I was fighting fit, but tragedy struck on the 20th of April. Me and my family were in bad car crash and lucky to be alive this happened on the A69 coming back from Glasgow. This has left me aching and sore and also left me with ptsd. I'm on alot of medication.

Getting to the swim is a challenge in it's own right as I'm not the best passenger anymore my anxiety goes wild.

I am giving this swim my best shot. After all swimming is good for you isn't it right!....?

If anyone can donate thankyou so much.

Love to you all

Joanne Rice

We're here to support people with serious illnesses in the Newcastle area to have the best quality of life possible, whatever that might mean for them.

Our hospice team includes doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, social workers and many more, and is supported by over 100 volunteers, who play a vital role in the running of the hospice.

Some people stay in our 20-bed in-patient unit, where relatives and friends can visit any time of the day or night, and stay with their loved ones if they wish.

Our day therapy unit offers outpatient clinics and a wide range of activities and therapies, including baking, art therapy and relaxation.

We also provide support for carers and families, including our social work team who provide emotional and practical advice. Our chaplain is here to provide spiritual care to patients and their loved ones.

Thank you for supporting us, and helping to make sure more people with a terminal illness in the Newcastle area get the care and support they need.