Last year, Gaynor Bentley swam across 60 different wild locations including Spring Lakes to celebrate her 60th birthday.
We helped provide end-of-life nursing care for Gaynor's late mum – and now she’s urging others to consider wild swimming as a way of raising funds.
We are seeking swimmers to take part in this year’s Great North Swim, a 1 mile swim in Lake Windermere in the Lake District from Friday 10 – Sunday 12 June.
“The first time I went wild swimming, I was so nervous; I nearly didn’t get in the water but, once I did, I didn’t want to get out.
The cold water and being surrounded by beautiful scenery just made everything else melt away and the glow lasted for hours.
“Every swim since has been a very different experience but still makes all my senses feel heightened and helps so much with my mental health. Be warned, though – it’s addictive!
The Great North Swim will take place in beautiful Brockhole on Windermere and is one of the UK’s most popular open water events.
Gaynor has nothing but praise for the support we gave her during her 60 wild swims challenge - and also in caring for her mum, Ada Clayton.
“I will never forget Treetops support at what was probably the biggest challenge of my life – working full-time and caring for my Mum.
We wouldn’t have got through this time without the Treetops nurses. They would look after mum to give me and my dad a night off from caring for her. We could have a good night’s sleep and recharge our batteries.
Gaynor
For a guaranteed Treetops place in the Great North Swim, entrants will pay a reduced price £20 entry fee. You must commit to raising £216 which will help us to provide two nights of Hospice at Home nursing care.
As well as getting an exclusive Treetops t-shirt, swimmers will also receive fundraising support together with training and tips from our supportive community on social media.