Support Joe Thomas: Swimming the Channel for MDS UK!

10 Sep. 2025

 

It’s true what they say – you can’t keep a good man down! In 2023, Joe Thomas completed an extraordinary 100-mile ultra-marathon, raising over £12,000 for MDS UK after his dad, Pete, was diagnosed with MDS in 2022.
Now Joe is preparing for another Herculean challenge : swimming the English Channel! – 21 miles of cold, unpredictable waters – all to raise vital funds for MDS UK.

Pete and Joe Thomas

Joe Thomas sitting arm in arm with his dad Pete, smiling together in support of MDS UK

Why Joe is swimming the Channel for MDS UK

Joe’s dad, Pete, was diagnosed with MDS in 2022, and since then the family has been supported by MDS UK.
"Thankfully, our family has had incredible support from MDS UK, an extraordinary charity that provides invaluable help to patients like my dad."
Looking for ways to support MDS UK, Joe has taken on challenges that push his body and mind to the limit.
“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.”

From the slow lane to the channel

When Joe decided to take on this challenge, he couldn’t swim front crawl. Starting in the slow lane of his local pool, he gradually built up his technique, stamina, and resilience.
In 2025, training moved outdoors to Dover Harbour, where Joe braved icy waters and powerful currents to prepare for the Channel’s notorious conditions – often described as the “M25 of waterways.”

Watch Joe train for his English Channel swim

When will Joe swim the Channel?

Depending on weather and sea conditions, Joe is aiming to complete his English Channel swim in Spring 2026. The exact date will be confirmed closer to the time, as Channel crossings rely heavily on favourable tides, safety clearance, and calm weather windows.
Joe’s determination and preparation are unwavering – and with every training session, he’s getting closer to achieving his goal of swimming the Channel for MDS UK.

How you can support Joe and MDS UK

MDS UK receives no NHS or pharmaceutical industry funding. Every service – from running the helpline, to support meetings, research updates, and patient resources – relies on fundraising from people like Joe.
Your support matters. Here’s how you can help:

Thank you Joe Thomas

We are deeply grateful to Joe for his courage and determination. By taking on the challenge of swimming the English Channel, he is helping bring hope and support to countless families affected by MDS.

 

About MDS UK Patient Support Group

MDS UK is a small, dedicated charity supporting patients and families affected by Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) and CMML. We provide:
  1. A national support line for patients and carers
  2. Online support meetings often with specialist speakers
  3. Information resources and guides
  4. This website
  5. Advocacy and updates on the latest MDS research

Inspired by Joe’s journey?

Start your own fundraiser for MDS UK! With MDS World Awareness Day 2025 coming up on October 25th, there’s never been a better time to take on a challenge, raise awareness, and make a difference for people living with Myelodysplastic Syndromes.
Through our Fundraise for Us initiative with Fundraizing Hero, you can set up your own challenge or event.