Jude’s epic swimming challenge raises £1,270 for Royal Oldham Hospital’s haematology unit

In an extraordinary show of determination and gratitude, Oldhamer Jude Honeyman has completed a remarkable swimming challenge, raising £1,270 to support NorthCare Charity.

NorthCare is the the official charity of the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, which includes the Royal Oldham Hospital.

The funds will be invested by the charity directly into enhancing care and patient experience on the hospital’s Ward F11 Haematology Unit.

Over just five weeks, Jude, an organisational development and skills specialist, swam an astounding 500 lengths at the Norton Grange Hotel pool.

Her original target was £500, but support poured in as her story spread, more than doubling her goal.

For Jude, this challenge was far more than a fitness milestone.

She lives with genetic haemochromatosis, a hereditary condition that causes dangerous levels of iron to build up in the body.

Diagnosed in February 2025 with the C282Y gene mutation, she began receiving regular treatment at Royal Oldham hospital, where the haematology team removes excess iron ‘pint by pint’ every fortnight.

Jude said: “The team at Oldham have been my lifeline.

"In six months they’ve helped me through one ofthe toughest periods of my life.

"This was my way of giving back.

”Swimming became a crucial part of Jude's recovery and a sanctuary that eased the symptoms of haemochromatosis and restored her strength, confidence, and resilience.

Her challenge ran from September 22 to October 20, 2025, with every stroke symbolising determination, gratitude, and hope.

The funds raised will directly support patients and staff within Ward F11, enhancing care for people receiving
chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and treatment for chronic conditions like haemochromatosis.

Ward Manager Claire Brumell said: “The haematology unitteam extends its sincere gratitude to Jude for her exceptional fundraising efforts.

"Her generosity and commitment play a vitalrole in supporting our patients and enhancing the care we provide.

"Contributions such as Jude’s enable us to continue delivering the highest standards oftreatment and comfort.”

Reflecting on the journey, Jude added: “I had no idea I had this condition for 56 years.

"The fatigue has been immense, butrediscovering swimming helped me manage the aches and pains and gave me a purpose through the ‘getting better’ phase.

"A pint every two weeks is tough on the body, butthe staff are truly angels; even with limited resources and constant demand.

"We never know when we’ll need the NHS, and I got the very best care.”

Supporters can still donate via Jude's JustGiving page here

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