Our deepest thanks go to John Watling, who recently gave an inspirational fundraising talk about Team Seasoar’s Atlantic crossing as part of the World’s Toughest Row 2024/25.
John Watling from Team Seasoar
John spoke following a lunch at Bowood Golf and Country Club in Wiltshire on Saturday 19th July 2025 in support of the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust and Lyme Disease UK. We are very grateful to Jennie Shaw, Jane Lear and everyone at the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust involved in organising the event. A warm thank you also to Lady Lansdowne and the team at Bowood for hosting such a wonderful lunch.
Generous charity support
The event was a great success and raised substantial funds for both charities (an amazing £6,629 for Lyme Disease UK)! A fundraising auction followed John’s talk and we are incredibly grateful to everyone that generously donated prizes, took part in the auction, and offered winning bids.
Jennie Shaw, Natasha Metcalf, Joanne Lee and Jane Lear
Team Seasoar chose to support LDUK after John’s daughter, Yasmin Watling, developed the disease. Although Yasmin was unable to join the event in person due to illness, she was able to watch John’s talk live via FaceTime.
John spoke from the heart as he explained how Lyme disease had affected his family and how he and Team Seasoar had wanted to help support Lyme patients after learning about the struggles often faced in gaining an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Life at sea!
The audience hung on every word as John described the challenges the team had tackled at sea. Memories of dehydrated food, cramped quarters, lack of sleep, hallucinations, huge waves, endless rowing, horrendous weather, and a devastating capsize captivated the room!
Footage from the row showcased the highs and lows of the race, including the amazing seascape and sea life the team had seen during their Atlantic crossing. The atmosphere at the lunch was wonderful with many laughs throughout the afternoon.
(Credit: The World’s Toughest Row)
Supporting Lyme disease patients
LDUK’s Co-founder and Chair, Natasha Metcalf and Communications Manager, Joanne Lee, were delighted to attend the event. Natasha gave an informative talk raising awareness about Lyme disease, explained more about the work of the charity, and thanked everyone for their support.
Natasha Metcalf raising awareness about Lyme disease
Watch John Watling’s talk about the World’s Toughest Row
Next steps
Patients with Lyme disease and coinfections desperately need:
- improved medical awareness;
- more reliable testing;
- swifter diagnosis;
- improved treatment options;
- treatment protocols tailored for late-stage cases; and
- more research into the disease.
Learn more about Lyme disease and the challenges faced by patients.
Considering a fundraising challenge?
We would be delighted if you would consider supporting Lyme Disease UK and can help you to raise the publicity you need. Simply contact admin@lymediseaseuk.com to discuss your future fundraising plans!