Make a fresh start to 2016 by taking an icy dip in the sea at Helen’s Bay Beach on New Year’s Day at 11am and raise much-needed cash for Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.
Jillian Wallace, Challenge Events Officer for Cancer Focus NI, said: “We’re encouraging everyone to do something worthwhile this New Year’s Day, so why not shake off all that Christmas over-indulgence by taking a sponsored dip in the sea?
“It’ll be freezing but we guarantee you’ll have a great time with all the other people taking part – and, most importantly, you’ll be helping raise money for a fantastic cause.
“The cash you raise will go towards our Family Support Service, which gives essential help to children when their mum, dad or grandparent has cancer.”
Everyone will receive a Cancer Focus NI t-shirt when they register and a warm drink will be waiting for you after your swim. There will also be prizes for the best fancy dress.
Rachel Smith, Family Service Coordinator for Cancer Focus NI and a keen outdoor swimmer, is taking part in the dip.
“In my job, I see a lot of sadness and meet families whose lives are very challenging,” she said.
“The money you raise will go towards our important CLIMB programme. CLIMB (Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery) is for children aged 5 to 12 and helps them understand cancer through the use of art, craft and play.
“It helps them talk about their fears and meet others in the same situation. It also gives parents and carers time-out to meet.”
Rachel added: “Apart from helping these children, outdoor swimming is so good for you. To me, swimming is my way of coping, when you step into cold water every sense comes alive and it reminds you that you are living. I hope you’ll come and join us – and get your friends and family involved too. It’ll be lots of fun!”
It is only £10 to register and the charity is asking everyone to try and raise around £80, which will pay for a child to attend CLIMB for six weekly sessions.
For more information or to sign up email challenge@cancerfocusni.org or give Cancer Focus NI a call on 028 9068 0788.
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