My name is Nora, I’m from the North of Ireland and I chose to run for VICTA as I’m an NHS support worker and I have a lovely client who is vision impaired.

I’ve previously run the Dublin marathon and plan to finish the London Marathon as part of #TeamVICTA in 4hours and 45mins.

Can you describe the event / fundraising initiative?

Our fundraising event was a cold-water dip in Emyvale, a small lake in Monaghan Eire. It was on Sunday 16 February at noon.

We advertised it on social media because we knew cold water dipping has become so popular. Myself and my sisters are regular dippers and know first-hand the benefits – (reducing muscle pain, improving circulation, boosting your immune system, stress relief, reducing inflammation, improving fitness levels & improving metabolism).

We provided refreshments and it turned into a great social event. We dared people to dip but we also invited people to come along and take pictures. There were lots of people dipping for the first time and they loved it.

Would you recommend it to others?

We would highly recommend it as a fun way to raise money for blind and partially sighted young people. We raised £500 on the day and the fundraising is still coming in!

Thanks to everyone who took the plunge and splashed out to support VICTA! If you would like any help with your fundraising for VICTA or have a story to share, drop us an email at fundraising@victa.org.uk.