Ruth Hitchcock started swimming daily on 9 October 2023 after her husband, Dave, was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer earlier in the year. Ruth was swimming every day, in every weather, to raise awareness of neuroendocrine cancer. The daily dips gave her and Dave something to focus on while coping with his diagnosis.
To mark 365 days, Ruth invited people around the world to take part in the “Daily Dip for Dave”. One could take a dip in the sea, go for an open water swim, plunge into a bath of icy water, or even just a cold shower. Everyone was welcome. Hundreds of people took part on 12th October.
Neuroendocrine Cancer UK team was astounded by the support. Daily Dip for Dave has since raised £25000 for neuroendocrine cancer, with Ruth finishing her 365th swim to the applause of more than 100 others at Gyllyngvase beach, Falmouth, on Saturday.
Ruth has vowed not to stop at 365 days and will continue her daily dips for 1000 days.