Moretonhampstead man's swim challenge in stepson's memory

A Mortonhampstead man is undertaking an extraordinary challenge to commemorate the memory of his stepson, Benjamin, and raise funds for a charity close to his heart. 

Alan Skilton, 64, will be participating in a 20-mile swim in his honour.

Benjamin lost his battle with leukaemia in June 2023, inspiring Alan to embark on this challenge. 

Alan is raising funds in memory of his stepson, Benjamin 

To support his fundraising, Alan has set up a JustGiving page. 

Alan's journey towards this charitable endeavour has been marked by personal struggles and triumphs.

"In 2010, I had a heart attack which led to two stents, then in 2016, I had an aneurysm in my brain which led to a further two stents," Alan shared. 

Over the past two years, he has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding six stone in weight with a goal of losing an additional four stone to reach his target weight.

His fundraising challenge involves swimming 20 miles, equivalent to 1300 lengths, in a 25-metre swimming pool over a 12-week period, which commenced on March 11. 

Through his JustGiving page, Alan has appealed to the public: "Please donate what you can! You can either sponsor me per length or mile, or simply make a donation upon the successful completion of my challenge."

The cause Alan is supporting is the Exeter Leukaemia Fund (ELF), an organisation dedicated to assisting patients and families affected by blood cancers and disorders across the South West. 

ELF offers vital services such as accommodation, transport, patient support, physiotherapy, and counselling.

With a fundraising target of £1000, Alan is determined to make a meaningful contribution to ELF's ongoing efforts. 

He will be completing his swimming challenge at Parklands Leisure Centre in Okehampton, expressing gratitude to the facility and its staff for their support throughout his charitable challenge.

"Okehampton swimming pool has been amazing, and the staff deserve a big pat on the back for the service they have given me," Alan remarked.

Reflecting on Benjamin's life, Alan fondly remembers him as "a lovely guy" with a passion for exploration. 

He studied Minerals Engineering at the Camborne School of Mines. 

"As a hobby, he enjoyed exploring and explored most mines and tunnels around the Devon and Cornish coast," Alan shared.

Despite his illness, Benjamin maintained an optimistic outlook on life, a quality that continues to inspire Alan's fundraising efforts.

Gabrielle, Alan's wife and Benjamin's mother, expressed profound pride and gratitude for Alan's endeavours: "I'm very proud of Alan not only taking charge of his own health but trying to raise money for ELF, who did so much for us. This is only a little bit to pay back.”

She continued: "They were fantastic; all the staff just providing that specialist little unit was fantastic - Benjamin did not have to be moved to a different ward, and the continuity of care was amazing," 

Already making progress in his challenge, Alan remains motivated to reach his fundraising goal in support of ELF's invaluable work for families in Devon affected by blood cancer.

Through his determination and the generosity of supporters, Alan hopes to honour Benjamin's memory while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

To support Alan, follow the link here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/alans20mileswim