Rosie, my brave 4-year-old great-niece, was diagnosed with Stage 3 Rhabdomyosarcoma at the end of last year. She is currently undergoing weekly chemotherapy and faces another 9–12 months of treatment. When it’s safe, surgeons will remove the tumour in her bladder, followed by radiation therapy. Rosie is receiving care at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital in South Africa.

Her treatment is very costly and not fully covered. Her parents — my nephew Dan and his wife Luisa — are doing everything they can, but they need help to meet the medical expenses.

I had never planned to publicize my English Channel swim, which I booked three years ago for August this year. But family comes first. I will be Swimming for Rosie, turning this personal challenge into a way to help her get the care she needs.

So far, friends and family have covered about 60% of the costs. My goal is to raise the remaining funds for Rosie’s treatment. Anything raised beyond the target will be donated to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.

Every contribution, big or small, will make a real difference. Thank you so much for your kindness and support.