The family of a woman who died from bowel cancer shortly after organising a town’s sea swimming fundraiser will continue the event in her memory.
Terminally ill Victoria Hall raised £68,000 pounds through the Big Bathe in July last year, which saw 106 swimmers take the plunge for charity.
Victoria died shortly after in September, aged 33, just four weeks after her wedding day, but her family say they will return to the West Wittering seaside to continue the work she started.
“I think it’s important to continue Victoria’s legacy, it’s the least we could do,” said Victoria’s sister, Georgie Hall, 36.
“She was an inspiration to so many with her battle. Victoria was everyone’s friend. She was intelligent, she was sporty, she was vivacious.”
Victoria was supported by St Wilfred’s Hospice, Bosham, and her family want to give something back to the charity.
They are also raising money for charity Bowel Cancer UK.
“Three thousand people are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year and we don’t want Victoria’s journey to be wasted,” said Georgie.
“We know that it’s on the rise but we don’t know why. The hospice showed so much love to Victoria.”
Georgie and her family are inviting the community to show their support and take to the water.
“I would like to get the Sussex community involved. I will be swimming for Victoria but there will be people swimming for other people too,” said Georgie.
“This year will be different, for the weather probably. So while last year was great, we are hoping this year will be too.
“It’s going to be fun. Last year people said it was uplifting so this year we’re hoping to keep that going.
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“This will be a joyous day - whether you are a swimmer, in the bowel cancer community or your loved ones have been supported by the dedicated care at St Wilfrid's hospice, come down to the Big Bathe 2023 to show your support.”
Tickets for the event cost £40-£45 with proceeds split evenly between the charities.
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