I first took on the Aspire Channel Swim in 2018 after seeing a poster in my local swimming pool and completed it in about seven weeks.  I signed up again this year as I enjoy the challenge of doing the distance in the shortest time I can. Just as important is the fact that anyone can have a life changing accident or illness and become less mobile. Helping is important to me.

I normally swim three times a week at Penrith Leisure Centre, so I decided to try and do the distance in half the allowed time - six weeks. To do that I had to swim extra lengths when I could, but the pool sessions are long enough to get daily distances in. I enjoy the challenge of the Aspire Channel Swim and it’s very easy to setup up and record swims. I started my swim on 18th June and finished the 22 miles, in five weeks and five days.

I have always enjoyed swimming since I started when I was five. It keeps me healthy and it’s fun!  I’ve now been a swimmer for 67 years and I love it. You could say it’s something of an obsession – it keeps me going!

My advice for other swimmers taking on this challenge would be that if you are used to swimming, set yourself a personal challenge of the number of weeks you want to complete it in. If you are not very confident, try swimming 11 miles first.  When you achieve that you will have proved that you can go the distance, as your body will have got used to the extra effort you are making. I also find it helps to mention what you are doing to other swimmers you meet who will then ask how you are doing and encourage you when you next see them.  And if the challenge gets hard for you, try to think about those who find poor mobility tough – I find that a good spur to carry on.  And remember that each length is always one less you have to do for your total!

I don’t have the wide circle of work colleagues I used to be able to ask when I did sponsored events before as I am retired and recently moved but I was happy to raise £190 from my family and new friends who were happy to chip in. 

A spinal injury can change not only the person directly but also their work, family, hobbies etc all have to change and it impacts their families have to change too which is very hard.  Hopes and dreams can fade all too easily but with support, new paths can open up. 

Sponsor Suzanne

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