Swimming her Way Forward – Inspiring Member Story – Julia Ashley
We know that, post-pandemic, so many of our lovely members are battling difficulties or working through issues and we hope that the Club helps you as a constant source of comfort; somewhere to take your mind off any stresses; a place to de-stress and help your body and mind. We are always grateful to members who take the time to share their stories with us, which is what Graham Ashley has done.
He got in touch to tell us about his wife Julia and how she has recently been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. Whilst it’s been a nasty shock, and something they are coming to terms with, Julia has decided to face it head on and set herself the challenge of swimming 3km in one day on the 9th October.
Graham told us “Julia was a good swimmer, has good lungs and the tenacity to do this! Alzheimer’s is already taking its toll on her so she wants to do this whilst she still can.”
The couple divide their time between the UK and Greece so knew of the Spetses Mini Marathon on the small island of Spetses (54 miles from Athens). The event, which is celebrating its tenth year in 2021, runs a series of races including running, swimming and kids’ events and Julia has set herself the challenge of the 3K open swim.
She has been training hard as and when her body will allow both over in Greece and back here at the Club and whilst it’s going to be hard going, she’s going to give it her all. Which, let’s face it, is what life is all about!
Julia does want to reach out to let others know who are battling Alzheimer’s they are not alone and she would be very happy to meet at the Club for a coffee or two! If anyone would like to, please let the Reception team know and we can put you in touch with her.
We would like to wish Julia the very best of luck with her swim from all of us at Club Towers and we look forward to hearing about the day when she is back in the UK and in the Club.
You can read more about the event here and if you would like to sponsor Julia and donate to the Alzheimer’s Society you can do so on her Facebook fundraising page here.
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