Liz takes a shine to open-water swimming for spina bifida

Liz Colleran, director of Duvalay, a massive hit on Dragons’ Den and now with fans of bedtime luxury throughout the world, will take to the open waters and tackle the Great North Swim!

Liz will don her wetsuit and swim two miles across Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake and an icon of the Lake District, in support of Shine, Duvalay’s nominated charity.

Shine, which provides a range of assistance to individuals and families affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, is a charity very close to West Yorkshire-based Duvalay’s heart.

Duvalay, the family-run luxury leisure bedding specialist, is directed by husband and wife team Alan and Liz Colleran, and has experienced first-hand the many benefits of Shine’s support.

Liz’s niece, 25-year-old Lucy, was born with Spina bifida and hydrocephalous. From birth, Lucy experienced a range of health issues. Shine supported Lucy and her parents from the very start, providing information and support as her family responded to the challenges of her condition.

Liz Colleran said: “I’m feeling nervous but really excited as the Great North Swim approaches. It’s going to be a massive challenge, and at times I wonder what I’ve let myself in for; but I wanted to undertake a challenge in support of Shine.”

“My lovely niece Lucy is an inspiration to us all. Now a qualified nursery nurse, she is extremely determined, brilliant with people, and the most sunny-natured young woman you could hope to meet.”

“Lucy’s condition was diagnosed at birth and was a great shock to the family. There was a lot of information to absorb at the same time as baby Lucy underwent major surgery.”

“One huge concern was how Lucy’s condition would affect her mobility as she grew up. She experienced many complications; but she thrived, and we were all delighted with every step of her progress.”

“As a child Lucy spent many happy hours taking part in day trips with the Shine and attending weekend breaks hosted by the organisation. The support and sense of community provided by Shine have been invaluable, and we at Duvalay are pleased to be able to provide on-going support to the charity.”