DEBRA UK Challenge 2025

We’re heading up to Manchester today ready to spread the word about the challenge on BBC Breakfast tomorrow morning followed by a busy week of media interviews.
 
I’m excited to be getting back in the water for this challenge but I’m also a bit nervous it must be said. The training has been going well though, we’ve had plenty of 6am starts in the sea at Poole, which are certainly invigorating! With each swim I’m feeling stronger, which is encouraging. I’m certainly not the strongest swimmer; in fact, I’m probably the weakest in the team, but I’ll give it my best shot, we must.
 
We’re not exactly sure when we’ll be going as it’s weather dependent but hopefully in early May. Firstly, though it’s time to make as many people as possible aware about what we’re doing and why. I’ll be back in touch soon.
 
P.S. If you can spare a few pennies please sponsor me, or if you’re inspired to do something yourself you can set up your own fundraiser here on Give as you Live, why not set up your own mini swimathon?
 
Best wishes
 
Graeme

So, it’s been a few weeks since my last update and it’s been an interesting few weeks for me, to say the least! As you’re probably aware I’ve been struggling all year to fully recover from the shoulder surgery I had in January. This prevented me from taking part in the swim aspect of the challenge, but I was fully motivated to take on the cycling, even though I absolutely detest cycling!

That was the plan until a routine check-up with my heart surgeon a couple of weeks ago revealed that I needed heart surgery….again! This has now happened, and I am doing well but I can’t take on any strenuous physical activity for the next few months. If that wasn’t enough, the team has been battling the elements and haven't been able to take on the channel swim safely before the season finishes in early October.
 
Because of my physical situation and because the team is running out of time to get the swim in before the season ends, we’ve made the difficult decision to reschedule the challenge to next May. This then gives me time to fully recover from both my shoulder and heart surgeries so that I’m fighting fit to lead the team.
 
Please stay with me and the team on this journey. People like my good friend, Isla Grist, living with EB, face challenges and setbacks every day and yet they keep going. Their physical and mental strength is greater than any opponent I’ve ever encountered on the pitch, which is why we must keep going for them and we will complete this challenge.
 
You can help by sponsoring the challenge, by setting up your own fundraiser, or by telling your friends, family, colleagues, anyone you know about EB and the challenge we are taking on. With your support we can ensure a better future for everyone living with the pain of EB.
 
Please look out for updates on how my training is going as I get match fit!
 
Thank you for your continued support.
 
Graeme