12:00, 03 March 2021
Words by Smiley Team, Staff Writer, London
No weather conditions, be it ice, rain or snow, could stop army veteran Bryan Larkin from fundraising with an icy dip each day over the last three months. Massively exceeding his target, Bryan raised over £4,000 to support the homeless charity Crisis.
The former mechanic in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers swam in freezing water throughout December, January and February as part of the charity’s Icebreaker Challenge.
Shunning a wet-suit, the 29-year-old from Cardigan exposed himself to freezing temperatures in all manner of ways, from swimming in the sea, rivers and waterfalls, to plunging into icy water buts, all in just a pair of swimming shorts.
“The most challenging moments have to have been when the days were below 0°C with added wind chill and it was snowing or hailing. It meant you were cold before getting in and then even more so getting out and trying to get changed to try to warm up, while your body temperature continues to drop,” said Bryan.
“Knowing that my daily efforts have inspired others to donate and take part, to raise crucial funds for homelessness and seeing where that money goes, has really kept me focused and motivated.”
Bryan said that he got through it all thanks to hot homemade soups and encouragement from friends and family, who participated in his video finale, virtually ‘showering’ him with icy splashes from around the country.
After leaving the army, Bryan experienced mental health issues that a friend who had been homeless recommended he treat with the Wim Hof Method. By combining freezing temperatures with special breathing techniques, the process is meant to improve wellbeing.
Joining the dots, Bryan discovered the Crisis fundraising challenge and it seemed to be the perfect way to support people living on the streets the same way his friend did.
“Seeing my friend getting back on his feet is a big driver for me, even though he’s still struggling big time. It just baffles my mind that people have to live outside,” said Bryan.
Crisis supports people without a home, by providing employment, wellbeing and housing support to help people end their homelessness forever.
To donate to Crisis you can do so either via their donation page or via Bryan’s fundraiser.
