Dave Bill shares how he's swimming across the English Channel as part of a relay team to raise funds for Child Bereavement UK in honour of his godmother’s grandson, Raphaël Pryor, who died suddenly and unexpectedly on 16 March 2024, after collapsing during sport at school.

My advice to anyone else thinking of taking on a challenge is you can do it! Find an activity to which you're happy to dedicate time and effort. Show up, start small, and build upon each new level achieved.

Having recently returned to my birthplace of England, after living in the USA for much of my life, I joined London’s Serpentine Swimming Club (SSC). This afforded me the opportunity to regain my “sea legs” and become a member of a welcoming community.

The SSC has many accomplished open water swimmers; it became clear that if one has the gumption and desire to take on a challenge like the English Channel, they should. Being moderately athletic and prone to take on new challenges, it was only a matter of time, and some light prompting, until I thought, "Why not give it a go?"

The club organised a relay team in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the first official swim across the English Channel by Captain Matthew Webb. Having been around open water swimming for over ten years, I understood the significance of such a swim, submitted my name, and was selected. 

For me, endurance sport and movement have been a way to relax. Those activities help me focus and bring me joy and a sense of accomplishment. Preparing for the English Channel relay has been a wonderful centrepiece during a period of change. It also provides a new opportunity to honour those who have influenced my life; physical activities and sport are a connection between many family and friends and accomplishing this feat is my small way to honour those people, past and present.

Life is short and is what we make of it. I am at a stage in my life where I want to take on and enjoy new experiences that help me grow emotionally, mentally, physically, and socially. Tackling the English Channel has afforded exactly those opportunities.

One of my mum's closest friends is my godmother; her family has always been a part of ours. I decided to raise funds for Child Bereavement UK to honour the death of her  grandson, Raphaël. I could think of no better way than to raise money for their loss. Taking on a challenge like the English Channel is my little way to honour him and acknowledge the risk in any athletic endeavour. 

Raphaël was an athlete who died whilst playing sport. He was a beloved and a good friend who supported his communities. Because I believe in the power of community and connection, I could not think of a better way to honour Raphaël's gifts to his family and friends than to swim in a relay with my favourite swimming community.

Raphaël's maths teacher was Nick Adams, an accomplished open water swimmer and member of the swim club. After Raphaël passed away, Nick was incredibly supportive to his family. Additionally, Nick secured the berth for our 150th anniversary crossing. Raising funds is also a small tribute to Nick and all he has done for Raphaël's family, his school community, and the Serpentine Swimming Club.

To prepare for the challenge, I complete weekly long swims with speed and technique sessions. Additionally, I practice yoga and stretch and finally I do light strength training. I have gained invaluable guidance and support from the experienced swimmers in the club  and on our relay team.

I'm athletic, but I'm not a natural swimmer, and adjusting to cold water was difficult. Overcoming those obstacles brought a great sense of pride and accomplishment. Dedication, perseverance and support were necessary to prepare for this swim. I proved to myself that if I can take this on, there is much more I can accomplish with persistence and dedication. I also enjoy the sense of community; joining a kind and open-minded group of people has brought me a lot of happiness and a sense of belonging for which I will always be grateful.

Child Bereavement UK’s fundraising team has played a crucial role in providing direction for setting up the fundraising campaign and graciously supporting and promoting those who have and continue to raise money in Raphaël's honour.

My advice to anyone else thinking of taking on a challenge is you can do it! Find an activity to which you're happy to dedicate time and effort. Show up, start small, and build upon each new level achieved.

Think of it as a game. With each small achievement, you unlock new skills and abilities. Those add up to the capacity and confidence to accomplish the unexpected. Find people who can encourage and support you as you dive into the event or activity. You are not alone; being coached, encouraged, and held accountable ensures you continue to grow and can achieve your challenge.

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