Cancer survivor's wild swimming charity challenge

A NORTHUMBERLAND breast cancer survivor has used her own experience to inspire fundraising for a vital piece of clothing many might overlook.

- SAM VOLPE

Jemma Swinney, 46, was diagnosed with breast cancer, in summer 2024, after she discovered a lump on her breast.

She has been through surgery and radiotherapy and is now on the mend though still under review by medics at the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust.

This summer, Jemma has completed three mile swims outdoors at the Great North Swim at Windermere, at the Northumberland Festival of Sport and at Woodhorn Museum near Ashington.

The motivation is simple to help provide post-surgery bras to people going through breast cancer who may not otherwise be able to afford them.

Jemma has raised £1,500 so far, and has already delivered vouchers to the Northumbria breast service to support those in need.