Joe Thomas is swimming the English Channel for MDS UK
9 May. 2026
Joe is swimming 21 miles across the English Channel to raise vital funds and awareness for MDS.
Inspired by his dad's journey with MDS
Joe Thomas has been raising funds for MDS UK since his dad, Pete, was diagnosed with MDS in 2022. In 2023 he completed a 100-mile ultra-marathon, raising over £12,000.
His next challenge is swimming the English Channel — 21 miles of cold, unpredictable open water. A 2025 attempt was disrupted by bad weather before Joe could reach the water. Training continued, and he is now firmly back on track for a 2026 crossing, inspired throughout by his dad's journey and 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. 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.”
The challenge of a channel crossing
21
Miles across
12–16°C
Water temperature
10–16hrs
Typical crossing time
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 has since 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 has remained on course. Every missed session has been made up, often at the expense of downtime with friends and family — a reflection of Joe's commitment to the challenge ahead.
Next milestone: qualifying swim - May 16th 2026
To qualify, Joe must first complete a six-hour open water swim in Dover. After that, his Channel pilot will confirm a window of dates in July when tides, weather and sea conditions align — and pick the best day to go.
Preparations are also 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
Support Joe's Channel swim
MDS UK receives no NHS or pharmaceutical funding. Every service we provide — from our helpline to support meetings and patient resources — relies entirely on the generosity of fundraisers like Joe and donors like you. Thank you.
About MDS
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are disorders of the bone marrow, in which an excessive number of immature, abnormal blood cells are produced. The bone marrow — the spongy substance found in the centre of some bones — creates stem cells that develop into blood cells. In MDS, this process goes wrong, and there are several different types of the condition.
MDS can have life-changing consequences for patients and their families. MDS UK provides a national support line, online support meetings, information resources, and advocacy — entirely funded by supporters.
Thank you Joe
We are so 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.
