A DORSET doctor has challenged himself to swim for 16 hours across the English Channel for end-of-life care charity, Compassion in Dying.

On the front line of medical care in the UK as a general practitioner, Dr Chris Elfes has decided to swim across the English Channel after his career has made him aware of the importance of end-of-life care.

Hoping to raise £15,000, Chris has worked as a GP for over 30 years and has witnessed first-hand how crucial conversations around end-of-life care can be and has been a passionate advocate for Compassion in Dying (CID). 

Chris said: “Over my many years as a GP in Dorset, I have seen the difference planning ahead for the end of life can make to people. I’ve witnessed the pain, confusion and suffering that can be caused when patients don't have the opportunity to discuss and record their end-of-life wishes.

"Conversely, when patients do get the time and support to articulate what’s important to them, I’ve seen how it brings clarity, peace of mind, and a sense of control to both them and their families. That’s why I’m so committed to raising awareness – and money – for Compassion in Dying.” 

Preparing to celebrate his 60th birthday and his partial retirement, the swim is a culmination of three years of training. 

Across the £14,000 mark and sailing his way to the £15,000 goal, Chris and CID have urged people to back his challenge in donations and to learn more about the charity's work. 

 He said: "More people have climbed Everest than have swum the English Channel solo, it’s a rare thing to achieve, but I’m going to give it everything I have.

"Starting the conversation is so important, and Compassion in Dying is there to offer independent, professional support to help you work out where to begin, where to get more information, and how to start those important discussions and record what matters most to you. 

"If this swim results in just one person having a good conversation with their family or friends about their end-of-life wishes, it will have been worth it.”