In August 2026 (we hope), I’ll be taking on one of the world’s most iconic endurance challenges: a 6-person relay swim across the English Channel.

I’ve always said while I’ll never run a marathon, I might swim one. Turning 40 in 2026 felt like the moment to finally step up. I’ve loved swimming for as long as I can remember, most fondly doing lengths with my Dad or Sister. I swam throughout school and was proud to captain my school team for three years. More recently, I’ve wanted to get back to the water in a more meaningful way (although I didn’t originally have the UK in my sights). Meeting some wonderful people in the Highlands and swimming with my old pal Frances White has shown me how magical outdoor swimming in the UK can be. Then, at Thomas and Kathryn Cowderoy’s wedding, my uncle-in-law - Gerald - told me about the English Channel relay. Suddenly, it felt like something I could attempt, even though I know it will be a huge challenge for me. I’m not great with the cold, and with busy home and work responsibilities I’m very aware that a lot of training is needed.

I’m doing this to prove to myself that you can pursue your wildest dreams, even when life is busy. I want to really LIVE life and make my swimming journey part of this.

At university, I first came across Aspire through their pool-based Channel challenge. Later I worked on communications for the Bloomsbury Art Fair, supporting spinal injury charities such as Horatio’s Garden. Not long after, I experienced my own struggles with back issues — something that gave me a much deeper understanding of how vital this support can be. Aspire supports people living with spinal cord injuries, helping them regain independence and rebuild their lives. Their work is incredibly meaningful to me.

Your donation will make a real difference to people living with spinal cord injuries and will motivate me through every chilly training dip, every early morning session, and every stroke across the Channel in August 2026. This is my one big fundraising challenge, the only time I’ll be asking. So if you can, please dig deep. It truly means the world to me, and even more to those Aspire supports.

Thank you so much for supporting me.