My name is Marcela Herrera, and I write to you from my home in Yuma, AZ. On Saturday, September 19th, 2026, I will be crossing the ocean to take part in the Looe Island to East Looe Beach Swim.

Living in the scorching desert of Arizona, preparing for a freezing ocean swim is a massive challenge. I have spent months building my endurance in the local currents of the Colorado River. Every weekend, I make the long drive to the Pacific coast in San Diego just to shock my system in the cold ocean waves, doing everything I can to acclimatize my body to the harsh conditions waiting for me in the UK.

To finish this swim has been a profound dream of mine since my very first visit to Looe. But more importantly, this place holds a deeply personal meaning. It is one of the last holiday destinations I visited with my beloved father-in-law before he sadly passed away from cancer.

I am taking on this physical challenge to support the Chestnut Appeal, the wonderful organization hosting the swim. They are doing incredible, life-changing work helping men affected by cancer, supporting their families, and assisting the medical professionals who care for them. To be able to help with their great work in memory of my father-in-law is an absolute honour.

The event itself is quite a journey. From the Quayside at Looe, we swimmers will be taken out to the island on a beautiful flotilla of boats. Once the safety team is securely in place, the challenging swim back to East Looe Beach will begin.

Please, if you can, support my campaign and this truly great cause. And please, please wish me good luck! 😉