Between 1st July and 5th July 2024, Caroline Jones and Krissy Lackajis, both of Burntwood (aka Burntwood Belles), will undertake a particularly gruelling swimming challenge in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital. The challenge is to swim the distance from Jersey to France – a crossing totalling a minimum of 18-miles, which will see the dedicated pair swimming roughly 9-10 miles each during this endurance relay.

But why are they doing this? Well, Caroline discovered just a few years ago that her beloved daughter Isobel, then 15, had not one but three tumours on her brain. Just five weeks later, a longitudinal tumour was found on Isobel's spine which required immediate intervention - without fast action, Isobel may never have been able to walk again.

These tumours eventually lead to a diagnosis of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) – a condition which has left Isobel with life-altering issues that will require lifelong care and management.

Without the exemplary treatment and care that Isobel received from the Birmingham Children's Hospital throughout her diagnosis and afterwards, she would not be here today. The level of care, support and attention was not simply tremendous, it was lifesaving, and both Isobel and her Mom, Caroline, are eternally grateful.

Swimmers Caroline & Krissy, both of whom are experienced in open water, will be under the pilotage of Lionheart Pilotage and accompanied by Natalie Hands on the vessel, as chief “feeder & warmer-upper”!