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A fundraising swim from Newlyn to St Michael's Mount, proved a "moving
and spiritual experience" for three local swimmers, who at the same
time raised around £700 to help a local man who has Motor Neurone
Disease.
All-year-round swimmers Suzy Brooks, Chris Rudman and Steve Pinfield
on Saturday swam the three miles from the North Pier at Newlyn to the
Mount, escorted by the crew of the Penlee inshore lifeboat. The swim was
organised by Suzy, 51, the widow of a man who died from Motor Neurone
Disease, to raise funds for former RNLI crewman, Tim Osborne, who also
has the disease.
Tim is undergoing costly private treatment in Gloucestershire and hopes
to travel to Canada for a consultation with a specialist in the near future.
The Tim Osborne Recovery Fund was set up by his family to help him meet
the costs.
Tim was there for Saturday's swim and was able to escort them all the
way to the Mount after Shaun Stevenson took him along in his boat.
"It was a perfect day, with glorious weather," said Suzy.
"I have never done anything like this before. It was a truly spiritual
experience, something very special indeed."
Suzy said that those taking part in Mount's Bay Regatta cheered them
as they swam out in the bay, tooting their hooters and encouraging them
on their way.
"It took us just under three and a half hours to get to the Mount
where we received a huge welcome," said Suzy.
"People were throwing £10 notes into our collecting buckets
and cheering us. It was a wonderful experience and we are so pleased to
have raised around £700 for Tim's fund."
Suzy says that she will be organising another event at the end of the
summer.
"I did this swim for Tim and in memory of my late husband, Nicholas,"
said Suzy.
"I would like to thank Chris and Steve for joining me and all those
who sponsored us and supported us along the way. The Cornish people are
wonderful at pulling together and helping each other out. I shall never
forget this experience."
article copyright © THE CORNISHMAN
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