Hi everyone,

On 16th August 2025, I’ll be taking on a 10-kilometre open water swim to raise funds for the Marine Conservation Society, a charity dedicated to protecting the ocean and everything that depends on it.

Although I didn’t grow up by the sea, I’ve always felt drawn to the water. I swam competitively as a child and teenager and could only rarely resist the urge of a dip in the pool, lake, or sea wherever I was. After a long break from the sport, I’ve spent the past year reconnecting with swimming — and more recently, discovering the joy and challenge of open water swimming. It’s brought me a sense of freedom and peace that I hadn’t realised I was missing.

This challenge hasn’t come without its setbacks. I planned this swim months ago, but a shoulder injury from training — followed by a cycling accident — meant I had to hit pause on my preparation. There were moments I seriously questioned whether I should go ahead. But in the end, my strong-mindedness (or stubbornness!) won out. So I’m sticking with it and will complete this swim to the best of my ability. After all, if it were easy, everyone would do it.

More about the Marine Conservation Society:

Our ocean is at a tipping point. Right now, we’re polluting our waters and destroying precious habitats. We’re harming the species that live there and reducing the ocean’s ability to help fight the climate crisis. The Marine Conservation Society is fighting for a cleaner, better-protected, healthier ocean — one we can all enjoy. Together with communities, businesses, and governments, they’re making a real difference.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how small, I’d be incredibly grateful. Every contribution supports vital work to protect our ocean — for us and for future generations.

Thank you so much for your support

Issy