A POLICEWOMAN from Sleaford will be taking the plunge for cash when she takes part in a gruelling one-mile swim across Lake Windermere in the Lake District.
Det Con Lesley Alderson, who is based at Boston but lives in Sleaford, is taking part in the Great North Swim to raise funds for the Dancing Eye Syndrome Trust, which provides support and information to families with children who have this rare condi
tion.
She is being spurred on to complete the swim because her six-year-old daughter Shannon was diagnosed with Dancing Eye Syndrome at the age of two. The condition causes abnormal eye movements, which are often frantic.
Lesley said: "We've been through a really difficult time over the last few years, which began when Shannon became very poorly as a toddler and the discovery of a tumour on her adrenal gland.
"Shannon was diagnosed with DES six months after she first became ill and, following the removal of the tumour, we were regular visitors to the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham over a two-year period.
"As soon as Shannon's condition was diagnosed, we were put in touch with the Dancing Eye Trust and their help and support throughout has been invaluable."
Lesley, who has previously competed in triathlons, is set to complete the swim in September.
She has been training at the Sleaford Leisure Centre pool and Aldi have donated a wetsuit for her to wear for the event.
Lesley added: "The Trust desperately needs funds to carry out research into this rare illness.
"Thankfully, Shannon has made tremendous progress, despite the condition. Three years on, she has learnt to walk and talk again and is a vibrant, happy child.
"But, until more research can be carried out into what causes it, others less fortunate will continue to suffer the effects and have their futures crushed by DES."
l Anyone wishing to sponsor Det Con Lesley Alderson can call her on 01205 312231 or visit the following link www.justgiving.com/lesley
alderson.
