A GIRL whose father died the day before her sixth birthday is to take on a mile-long swim for the hospice who cared for him in his final days.

Megan Fishwick was heartbroken when she lost her father Mark at such a young age.

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She decided she was going to raise money for East Lancashire Hospice who cared for him and helped her family.

Mark Fishwick was 48 when he lost his battle with kidney cancer.

He was diagnosed in March 2008 and died in August the same year.

The hospice helped him and his family, and also provided counselling for Megan and mum Susan.

Megan, a pupil at St Michael’s CE School in Chorley, thought about a swimming challenge as she enjoys the sport but had never swam a mile.

The 12-year-old of Sutton Street, Feniscowles said: “The hospice made sure that it was easy for my mum and dad to tell me that my daddy had cancer and was going to die. Now it’s my turn to help them.”

Megan’s mum, Susan said her late husband would have approved of Megan’s fundraising idea.

She said: “I’m very proud of her as she’s taken it upon herself to come up with the idea to raise funds by swimming.

“The hospice really helped us with Mark and the help continued after he died as we both had counselling which really helped us.”

“Mark was a keen swimmer so I think that’s where she gets it from.”

Megan has already raised over £400 in total but would love to reach £500.

She added: “Every milestone I’ve reached has been brilliant. I wanted to raise £100 at first and when I got there it was fantastic.

“Even the people at Waves have been supportive and have been collecting for me too.

“Now it’s over £400, to get to £500 for the hospice would be amazing.”

Megan’s swim will take place on Friday, March 13, at the new Blackburn Sport and Leisure Centre where there is a donation box for Megan’s challenge.

People can also donate online at www.justgiving.com/Megan-Fishwick.

Hospice fundraiser Kimberley Hall said: “Megan is a very determined young lady who wanted to do something special to remember her dad.

“We are grateful and proud of her brilliant fundraising efforts so far and are sure she will reach her goal of raising £500 and we wish her well for her swim.”