My Charity Swim for Breast Cancer Now

A year ago today I started the 10 mile challenge – swimming 17,600 yards over the course of the month in order to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness.  I shared my mission on the blog here and while I signed up to swim ten miles when I was only two weeks in I had already hit my target and decided to doubled it – committing to swimming 21 miles in July.  Last year I hit my goal, swimming just over the required distance by the end of the month and I also reached 112% of the fundraising target I set out, thank you again to everyone!  And while I don’t like to move backwards life is not the same as it was 12 months ago so I am going to choose the more reasonable, yet still difficult option, in 2022 – a charity swim of 10 miles in July to benefit Breast Cancer research.

In the past it would not have been about the distance,  for a former competitive swimmer that is not a very far, but about making the time and not getting bored. This year, it is both of those things combined with a lack of physical fitness and also the mental strength to do so.   By that I mean July 2022 was supposed to be very different from what it looks like now and I think about that every day.  Also, looking at a black line while swimming laps is one of the places where you can completely shut out the world and get lost in your own head and my mind is a scary place right now.

I will be attempting to complete this challenge in the pool at my local gym which is only twenty meters meaning I’ve got a bit over 804 laps of thinking ahead of me.   And to be honest, while this does not sound like my idea of a good time whatsoever I am thankful I can aim to make a positive impact with my actions.  I know so many people who have been diagnosed and bravely fought breast cancer, some of who have beat it and others who weren’t as lucky.  It is unfortunate to have real life exposure to the disease but it makes it even more important for me to do this charity swim.

For those who were not around last Summer or need a refresher Breast Cancer Now is a UK charity that provides services and support for those affected by breast cancer, as well vital, life-saving research into the disease.  Ultimately their goal is to change the future of breast cancer and make sure that, by 2050, everyone diagnosed with the disease lives – and is supported to live well.

Last year the charity recommended I set up the Fundraiser via Facebook because the do not charge any fees to the charity, the fundraiser, or the donors. Thus every penny (or pence) of the funds I raise will go directly towards Breast Cancer Now.  Your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate £5 or £50, every little bit helps.  While raising money is important – and I hope to hit my target – encouraging texts, messages, or comments are also very welcome because this is going to be both a mental and physical hurtle.  I will share updates here and on social media occasionally but if you want to follow along in real time I will be posting my workouts on Strava.

Thank you for your support for my charity swim!