Date Posted: 2025-07-15 15:02:01 | Video Duration: 00:10:54
In a heartfelt tribute to his father, who was an inspiring runner and a cherished figure in his life, a man embarks on a remarkable challenge that transcends the traditional marathon. With a personal story intertwined with devotion and purpose, he sets out to swim an extraordinary 21.1 kilometers in a pool, a distance comparable to running multiple marathons. This endeavor is not only a tribute to his late father but also a mission to raise funds for vital cause.
A Father’s Legacy
The journey begins with the influence of the narrator’s father, a dedicated runner who participated in the Bath Half Marathon annually to support charitable causes. Despite his career in the Royal Navy, which limited his opportunities for running, he seized every chance to run ashore and explore new environments. His father’s passion for running and love for the outdoors became a profound inspiration, fostering the narrator’s own appreciation for these pursuits.
In late 2022, the narrator’s father was diagnosed with a slow-growing but sizable bowel cancer. By January 2023, the cancer had advanced rapidly, leading to a grim prognosis. However, the support from the local cancer hospice, Dorothy House, allowed the father to return home for a few precious weeks before he passed away in April 2023, with his family by his side.
The Support of Dorothy House
The significance of Dorothy House’s care and support during this challenging time cannot be overstated. The hospice provided not only medical assistance but also emotional support for the entire family. With over 4,000 patients and their families cared for annually, Dorothy House’s hospice and community care programs are vital resources. Their services extend beyond the hospice itself, with 90% of their care delivered in the community, ensuring patients and their families receive the support they need.
However, Dorothy House faces financial challenges. With only 20% of their funding coming from government sources, they rely heavily on fundraising efforts to cover their costs. The rising expenses for staff, utilities, and other necessities have put a strain on their budget, leading to concerns about sustainability.
An Epic Challenge for a Worthy Cause
Determined to honor his father’s legacy and support Dorothy House, the narrator decided to undertake a unique challenge. Instead of running a half marathon like his father, he chose to swim an astounding 21.1 kilometers. To put this feat into perspective, swimming 10 kilometers is often compared to running a marathon due to the similar calorie expenditure. Completing 21.1 kilometers in a pool is akin to running multiple marathons consecutively.
This ambitious swim will take place at Bath Leisure Center, a location of personal significance where the narrator developed a love for swimming as a child. The training for this event has been intense, with the narrator preparing diligently since his father’s passing. The swim is expected to take approximately eight hours, with brief pauses for nourishment.
How You Can Help
The narrator’s goal is to raise funds through this challenge to support Dorothy House and Cancer Research UK. Donations will be split between these two important causes, ensuring that families facing similar experiences receive the support they need and contributing to advancements in cancer research. The fundraising page can be accessed at simonsswim.giving.
As an added incentive, the narrator has pledged to live stream a chest waxing if the fundraising goal of £5,000 is reached before the swim. This lighthearted commitment underscores the importance of community support and the impact of collective efforts.
The narrator concludes with a poignant message from his father’s eulogy, encouraging others to embody kindness and embrace moments of joy. By supporting this fundraiser, individuals can help prevent other families from enduring similar hardships and ensure that those who do face such challenges receive compassionate care.