Swimming the English Channel (relay of six) for Aspire, supporting Spinal Injury Support

Dave MCGINN is raising money for Aspire

English Channel Relay Swim · 31 July 2025

Every two hours someone in the UK is paralysed by a spinal cord injury. It can happen to anyone at any time and no one is prepared for how it will change their life. Aspire is a national charity that provides practical help, supporting spinal cord injured people from injury to independence.

Story

This July, I’m taking on one of my life's most challenging and exhilarating adventures: swimming a relay across the English Channel. Along with five incredible teammates, we’ll each take turns diving into the icy, unpredictable waters, all to support Aspire, a charity that transforms the lives of people with spinal injuries.

For those living with a spinal cord injury, every day can feel like an uphill swim against the current. Simple things we often take for granted—like moving around independently or accessing a suitable home—can become significant hurdles. Aspire provides housing, equipment, and invaluable support, ensuring people can live whole and independent lives.

When it comes to the challenge itself, swimming the Channel is no small feat. Imagine plunging into water as cold as 15°C with no wetsuit to protect you from the chill. The journey won’t just test our endurance; it’ll test our courage. Think jellyfish stings, the sheer exhaustion of swimming through waves at night, and the constant mental battle to keep pushing forward. But every stroke we take will be worth it, knowing it’s helping Aspire continue its life-changing work.

I am personally aiming to raise as much as possible to support Aspire's vital services. Every donation, no matter the size, is a step closer to ensuring someone regains their independence after a spinal injury.

Please consider donating if you’d like to support this incredible cause as we brave the Channel. Together, we can make a real difference in people’s lives.

Thank you for sharing this journey with us—whether through your donations, encouragement, or simply spreading the word.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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Donation summary

Total
£4,621.00
+ £1,006.00 Gift Aid
Online
£4,621.00
Offline
£0.00

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