A DISABLED pensioner battled his way past Covid-19 and defied other health conditions to raise vital funds in a charity swim.
Harry Holt was planning a 30-length swim at Hyde’s Village for Children In Need when he contracted coronavirus.
But that did not stop him recovering and getting into the pool to complete his challenge and raise more than £1,000.
The 66-year-old, originally from Hattersley, decided to get fit when his day care sessions were stopped because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
He used his new found athletic ability to raise the funds and nothing was going to stop him, despite still suffering with a blood clot in his leg and living with a range of conditions, including epilepsy and autism.
Harry, who lives with his sister in Bredbury, said: “I know Children in Need help a lot of children who have conditions like mine and I really wanted to contribute what I could to help them.
“The staff at the Village Hyde, Primus Disability Stockport and all my family and friends were so encouraging.
“I knew nothing was going to stop me doing the swim when I could!
“There’s not many activities that I can do because of my health issues but swimming really gave me a boost when I had nothing to do when the day centre closed two years ago.
“I go swimming a few times a week with my sister and brother in law and the staff at the pool have always been so friendly and supportive so I thought it was the perfect challenge.
“I’m so proud to have raised so much money and grateful to everyone who sponsored me.”