Joe Thomas’ English Channel challenge for MDS UK
Written by Kate Vahl
Joe Thomas set out to swim the English Channel in support of MDS Support UK. Although dangerous currents meant the swim had to be brought to an early end for safety reasons, his incredible determination has raised vital funds and awareness for people affected by MDS.
Support Joe's Channel Swim
Joe took on one of the world's toughest endurance challenges. Every donation will help MDS UK provide information, support and community for people affected by MDS.
What it really takes to swim the English Channel
Many people hear "English Channel swim" and think: "21 miles. A long swim."
The reality is far tougher
This was the culmination of more than two years of relentless training and preparation for a challenge where success depends on technical efficiency, physical strength and mental resilience, balanced against the unpredictability of the wind and sea.
Despite all that preparation, Joe faced his biggest challenge as he made his way across the English Channel. Every stroke tested his endurance, determination and ability to adapt to constantly changing conditions.
Although the Channel is around 21 miles at its narrowest point, swimmers often cover much farther because of powerful tides and currents. Joe faced these relentless conditions throughout his attempt, spending hours in water as cold as 15–18°C while battling fatigue, cold, waves and ever-changing sea conditions.
Under official Channel Swimming rules
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No wetsuit. Joe wore only a standard swimming costume, one swim cap and a pair of goggles.
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No stopping or touching the support boat. Every drink and feed had to be passed to Joe while he continued swimming. Touching the boat would have ended his official attempt.
He swam through one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, guided by experienced pilots navigating commercial traffic, tides and changing conditions. Every stroke Joe took was for people affected by MDS.
This challenge was deeply personal for Joe
He took on the English Channel in support of his dad, who is living with MDS.
"Thankfully, our family has had incredible support from MDS UK, an extraordinary charity that provides invaluable help to patients like my dad. Any donation, big or small, will make a real difference,” says Joe. “It will help other MDS patients get the support they need when they receive a life-changing diagnosis.”
Throughout the swim, Joe's mum and dad were alongside him on the support boat, managing his feeding plan, monitoring his morale and stroke rate, and making decisions based on his energy levels and the inevitable seasickness he experienced. In short, they shared every high and low of the journey. As Joe battled cold water, strong tides and hours of relentless swimming, they were there encouraging him every stroke of the way.
Now he needs our support.
If you've been thinking about sponsoring Joe, this is the moment. Every donation, no matter the size, will help MDS UK continue providing information, support and advocacy for people affected by MDS and their families across the UK.
Joe's training journey: From the slow lane to the channel
When Joe took on this challenge, he couldn't swim front crawl. He started in the slow lane of his local pool and worked up from there, developing technique, stamina and cold-water tolerance.
Joe training in the pool
Training in Dover Harbour
Training then moved to Dover Harbour, with sessions in water temperatures as low as 5–6°C, carefully managed to balance progress with safety. A Channel crossing requires continuous swimming for many hours against shifting tides, without a wetsuit.
Despite a demanding work schedule and international travel, training remained on course. Every missed session was been made up, often at the expense of downtime with friends and family — a reflection of Joe's commitment to the challenge ahead.
Preparations have also been underway behind the scenes, from finalising the support crew to coordinating the logistics required for a successful crossing.
Masterpiece — the pilot boat that will accompany Joe across the Channel
Joe with his family
Joe giving his dad, Pete, a taste of the cold plunge in his back garden
Help Joe make every mile count
Joe has spent more than two years preparing for this extraordinary challenge.
Every donation helps MDS UK continue providing specialist support, trusted information and advocacy for people affected by MDS.
Why your support matters
Joe took on this incredible challenge because his family has experienced first-hand the difference MDS Support UK can make.
Thanks to supporters like Joe and everyone who donates, we can continue to be there for people facing an MDS diagnosis—providing trusted information, practical support and a welcoming community when it's needed most.
Discover the support that MDS UK offers
If you or someone you care about has been affected by MDS, we're here to help with trusted information, practical support and opportunities to connect with others who understand.
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You don’t have to face MDS alone — explore our Support section for practical advice and emotional support via our support line and virtual meetings
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You can download our comprehensive MDS Patient Guide for clear, reliable information about living with MDS.
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Find out how MDS is treated and what options might be right for you on our MDS Treatments page
