Funding vital research for Pulmonary Fibrosis NI
A core value at Atmos International (Atmos) involves being brilliant together. We recognize the importance of supporting people both inside and outside the business and this extends to our charitable efforts.
From local charities including foodbanks and the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity to global charities like UNICEF, Atmos actively contributes to fundraising initiatives close to our colleagues’ hearts.
Recently, Atmos contributed £500 towards 16-year old Daniel Smyth’s North Channel swim in aid of Pulmonary Fibrosis NI.
Daniel’s remarkable story
Daniel Smyth is a 16-year old student from Newy, Northern Ireland, with a passion for amateur sea swimming.
In July 2024, Daniel Smyth aims to take on the challenge of swimming the North Channel to raise funds for Pulmonary Fibrosis NI, a charity that holds significance to him and his family.
Breaking records
Daniel is a member of the Red Hot Chilli Dippers, a relay swim team. In September 2023 they completed the North Channel swim together, breaking the world record for being the youngest ever relay team to complete it.
Now, Daniel wishes to complete the swim again, except this time he’ll be doing it independently. Successfully completing the swim this time will make Daniel Smyth the youngest person on record to swim the North Channel solo.
About the challenge
The North Channel swim is a 34.5km route from Ireland to Scotland and is considered one of the toughest sea swims in the world due to challenging conditions such as cold water temperatures and lion mane jellyfish.
Traditionally you need to be 18-years old to complete the North Channel swim challenge but the Irish Long Distance Swimming Association (ILDSA) have granted Daniel special permission to complete it this year for his dedicated charity, Pulmonary Fibrosis NI.
About Pulmonary Fibrosis NI
Pulmonary fibrosis is a terminal condition and Idiopathic Pulmonary fibrosis currently has no known cause or cure.
Pulmonary Fibrosis NI provide support to patients and their families from across Northern Ireland through practical advice for day-to-day living and support group meetings held virtually.
The charity helps raise awareness and supports research into improved outcomes and greater understanding around pulmonary fibrosis.
Learn more about Pulmonary Fibrosis NI
How you can help
The primary fundraising goal of Daniel’s swim is to raise money for Pulmonary Fibrosis NI, however he first needs to raise funds to cover the cost of a support boat to travel alongside him on the North Channel swim.
The cost of a support boat is approximately £3,700, which Atmos has proudly contributed towards as the date of his challenge fast approaches.
Here’s how you can contribute towards Daniel’s record-breaking charity swim