March is our Swim the Distance month, when people are encouraged to swim between 5km and 56km to raise money for the hospice. One keen swimmer who’s signed up is Stevie, who, despite living with Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM), plans to swim 500 lengths. We spoke to Stevie’s mum, Nikki, who has been having acupuncture at the hospice, to find out more.

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer after having a routine mammogram last year, leading to two surgeries to remove the affected tissue and a course of radiotherapy. My medication has led to some side effects, so my MacMillan nurse referred me to the lovely Anna and Maggie at St Wilfrid’s for some acupuncture to help manage these symptoms. I am so grateful that St Wilfrid’s is able to offer this service.

We have also had some close family friends that have unfortunately needed end of life care, and they and their families have been cared for and supported by St Wilfrid’s. It is such a warm and welcoming place and as soon as you walk through the door you are greeted with smiles and a calm environment, which is so special.

When I was at an acupuncture appointment and saw information about the Swim the Distance challenge, I told Stevie about it, and he said that he would like to raise some funds. Stevie is 37 years old, autistic and registered blind, although he does have a little vision. He has always had a determined and resilient character, not forgetting his kind and gentle nature.

When Covid struck, Stevie was diagnosed with Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) which is a rare inflammatory condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. He spent four weeks in an induced coma on a ventilator and then 10 months in a rehabilitation centre learning to walk again.

Stevie says he would like to raise money because he has been helped and supported to get where he is today and has known many people that have benefited from the support that St Wilfrid’s gives to individuals and families at the most challenging times.

Originally, we didn’t want to put too much pressure on Stevie so said set his target low, but he has decided he’s going to try to swim 5km, which will be 500 lengths of the Blue Lagoon pool as it is a familiar place for him.”

Thank you, Stevie, we will be keeping an eye on how you and all our Swim the Distance challengers are getting on.

Pictured: Stevie and Nikki

Find out more about, or sign up to, Swim the Distance