100km Swim for Huntingtons

My story begins last year when I discovered and tested positive for the Huntington’s gene, a rare, inherited disease that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. About one in every 10,000 people have HD, and one in every 1,000 are touched by HD whether at risk, as a caregiver, family member or friend.

Originally from the UK, dealing with this news at the pinnacle of lockdown was extremely hard and terribly isolating experience being away from family. Now nearly 2 years later, I have been on the most incredible journey. Like many others this past 2 years, mental health and illness has been an increasingly talked about topic. For the first time in my life, I have faced many mental health struggles with anxiety, panic attacks and depression.

HDYO NZ is a voluntary organisation set up to provide support to the youth of New Zealand impacted by Huntington’s disease. Their aim is for the youth of New Zealand impacted by HD to be knowledgeable, supported, and empowered through a strong community support network and accessible information. An organisation to help you feel less alone.

Throughout the last 2 years, swimming has become a huge part of my mental therapy. I swam my first and only 10km swim just earlier on this year, something I never imagined myself capable of doing, it is the marathon of the swimming world. With this is mind, I have decided to swim 100km over 10 days. 10 swimming marathons in a row to support and raise awareness for HDYO NZ so others don’t have to go through this process alone and to show anything is possible whether you test positive or not!