Our union branch stands firmly behind Martha as she takes on this incredible sponsored swim in support of young lives vs cancer. Best of luck. from all the members of the Unite branch WM/7670.

Da iawn ti!

Gwych Martha. Pob hwyl iti, Taid a Nain ag Anti Rhian xxx

Pob lwc i chdi a Martha.xxx❤️❤️

Rather you than me!

Chwarae teg i chdi!

Saim gŵydd Martha! X

Da iawn ti Martha xxx

Da iawn chdi Martha ....Hero!!

Achos da Martha. Joia Mair (ffrind Anji a Rhys)

Da iawn! Mali + Liam <3

Pob lwc Angharad!

Cold water swimming, while invigorating and potentially beneficial for some, carries significant risks that can be morbidly fascinating. Here are some chilling facts: 1. Cold Shock Response Immersion in cold water (below 15°C/59°F) can trigger a sudden, involuntary gasp reflex. If this happens underwater, it can lead to immediate drowning. Hyperventilation can cause a loss of control over breathing, increasing the risk of water inhalation and drowning. 2. Cardiac Arrest The shock from cold water can trigger arrhythmias or sudden cardiac arrest, especially in those with underlying heart conditions. The rapid constriction of blood vessels increases blood pressure and stress on the heart. 3. Loss of Motor Control Cold water can quickly numb muscles, leading to impaired coordination and strength. This makes it difficult to swim, tread water, or even hold onto a lifeline. Within 10 minutes of exposure, even strong swimmers may lose the ability to keep themselves afloat. 4. Hypothermia Prolonged exposure to cold water leads to hypothermia, where the body’s core temperature drops below 35°C (95°F). Symptoms include confusion, lethargy, and unconsciousness, often referred to as the "paradoxical undressing" phase where victims remove clothing despite freezing. In severe cases, hypothermia can cause organ failure and death. 5. Cold Incapacitation After just a few minutes in very cold water, muscles become so stiff that basic survival actions—such as climbing into a boat or holding onto a rescue device—become impossible. 6. Delayed Drowning Even after being rescued, cold water swimmers are at risk of "dry drowning" or "secondary drowning." Water in the lungs can cause respiratory distress hours after exiting the water. 7. Ice Entrapment In icy conditions, swimmers risk being trapped under ice. Disorientation can make it difficult to find the entry hole, leading to suffocation under the ice. 8. Immersion Pulmonary Edema (IPE) Cold water can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, a condition called immersion pulmonary edema. This can lead to difficulty breathing, severe coughing, and potentially fatal outcomes. 9. Mental Impact The panic induced by cold water immersion can lead to irrational decisions, such as removing life jackets or swimming further from safety. 10. Afterdrop Effect When exiting cold water, blood from the warm core rushes back to cold extremities, causing a dangerous drop in core temperature. This can lead to collapse, even after apparent safety is reached. Cold water swimming requires careful preparation, acclimatization, and respect for the risks to avoid these morbid outcomes.

Good luck

Brrrrrr 🥶💪🏽

Gwych Martha!

Pob lwc, Martha!

Da iawn Martha!

Good luck Martha!

Good luck Martha!

Da iawn a pob lwc!

Pob lwc gan Anna a Jan, da iawn Angharad, cariad mawr xx

Fyddi di’n hooked ar ôl hwn!!! Pob lwc x

Good luck Martha!

Well done 👏 Lots of love Amy, Andy & Theo 😘

Pob lwc Martha 💪🩷

Pob hwyl iti Martha.

Pob hwyl Martha 💪🏻

Di neud 50/50 i fod yn deg 😉

Pob lwc chi’ch dwy 🙌

GO ANDREA GO!