TODAY'S Solent Swim is a chance for a Freshwater woman to spread the message — you can live well with a terminal illness.

Wendy Wheeler, 48, will be one of 30 swimmers crossing from Hurst Castle to Colwell Bay this morning, to raise money for West Wight Sports and Community Centre.

Wendy has secondary cancer in her bones, also known as metastatic cancer. She had surgery for breast cancer in 2015.

She said: “In 2017 my legs became painful, to the point I could barely walk. The cancer had spread to my pelvis.

“Although it is incurable, I have had treatment which has stabilised me.

“Two years ago I was wheelchair bound and could only walk a short way with a stick.

“Swimming in the sea and at WWSCC is the only exercise I have been able to keep up, as it is non weight bearing.

"Previously I was very active and found it very frustrating not to be active.

“I feel strong enough now to do the Solent Swim. I am doing it for myself, to prove I can still do some things, but mostly to show, you can still live well with a terminal illness.

“You have to do the best you can with what you have.”

Swimming has always been important to Wendy.

She explained: “It’s a lifeline, which has helped me though difficult times. I swim in the sea every day. It’s a great way to keep myself well, mentally and physically. The healing power of the sea is incredible.”

Wendy is a loyal supporter of WWSCC, an independent charity which has lost revenue during the pandemic.

“It would be devastating to lose WWSCC, for lots of people and lots of reasons.

“I am very keen to raise funds to keep it up and running. So many people benefit from the centre.”

Among the other swimmers due to take part is Island MP Bob Seely.

To donate to the Solent Swim, visit totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/2020solentswim

UPDATE: The swim has been postponed due to wind and will hopefully take place tomorrow (Sunday).