Rachel Plunges Into Hudson

Charity worker Rachel Smith is poised to take the plunge - she will be diving into the Hudson River in New York next month for a 10km swim for Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.

Drama therapist Rachel, who is the Family Service Coordinator for the charity, is taking part in the annual Little Red Lighthouse on September 22.

A keen outdoor swimmer, Rachelsaid: "I'm used to swimming in rivers and the sea but I'm really excited about this adventure as I'm not quite sure what to expect. I’m used to swimming in cold water and this will be warm. It will be a real challenge. I’ve been training hard three or four times a week but it will still probably take me several hours to complete the course."

Rachel’s job involves supporting families when a significant adult has cancer.

She is dedicating her swim to the memory of the parents and grandparents she has come in contact with who have since died.

Rachel said: "I recently I attended the funeral of a young man and was crying. A family member said to me 'Do you not get used to this?' I said 'No. The day I get used to it is the day I stop'."

She said: "We do excellent work with families in a time of stress and uncertainty, so please dig deep and give generously."

If you would like to help Rachel reach her target of £2,000 for Cancer Focus – previously the Ulster Cancer Foundation - visit www.justgiving.com/Rachel-Smith49. To find out more about the service email rachelsmith@cancerfocusni.org.

(NE)