We are very proud to announce that our very own Chief Operating Officer, Chris Chapman, and one of our Regional Managers, Kirsty Birch, will be taking part in Diabetes UK’s Swim 22 Challenge.
Chris and Kirsty (whose idea it was to take on the challenge) will both be swimming the equivalent of the width of the English Channel at the Straight of Dover, and are hoping to raise over £1,000 to support people living with diabetes. The Swim 22 Challenge, which takes place between 22nd February and 22nd March, involves swimming 22 miles in 12 weeks.
If you would like to support Chris and Kirsty’s fantastic efforts or follow their progress, please click here.
Chris said: “Diabetes UK is a charity that’s close to my heart because the nature of my business means I work closely with people who have the condition and I see first-hand how debilitating type 1 and type 2 can be so anything myself and Kirsty can do to raise the profile and raise funds is great.
“Over Christmas my activity levels dropped off, so I thought the Swim 22 Challenge would be a great way to kick start a healthier 2020 and get moving again and hopefully help reduce my blood sugar levels again alongside a new diet. The fact I’m fundraising for a worthwhile cause is a huge bonus and I hope people dig deep to help build a better future for people living with diabetes.”
Both have been preparing for the challenge, with Chris swimming half a mile every day in his pool at home, not even stopping when storms Ciara and Dennis struck!
He said: “It was pretty tough carrying on in the wind and rain, but I’m absolutely determined to complete this challenge. I kept telling myself that each stroke is bringing me closer to a brighter, and healthier future for myself, and also for everybody else who is living with diabetes in the UK.”