Isabella is taking on her 4th Aspire Channel Swim In 2016 I was searching for a swim related challenge as I swam when I was young for many years, competing nationally. When I came across the Aspire Channel Swim I thought it sounded brilliant and having not swum for a while, I thought it would be a real challenge. Sponsor Isabella I completed it again in 2019 and 2024 and have signed up for my 4th Aspire Channel Swim this year because I can’t resist the challenge! I find it so enjoyable and I love meeting different people who are swimming for all different reasons in the leisure pool. I swim at Woodford Leisure Centre in Hull and I’ve heard some inspiring stories over the years which I use as motivation to keep going if I’m feeling a bit lazy. I like that I can complete the challenge at my own pace. I always swim before work, as it sets me up for the day. I’m planning to swim 22 miles, though I like the option to choose this year. Maybe next time I will go for 44! I aim to complete the challenge over 12 weeks, swimming 3 times per week. I have challenged myself further in previous years and completed it in month! I love swimming and have since I was young. I swim for a mixture of reasons including wellbeing and cardiovascular fitness, but also as it takes the pressure of my joints. I have difficulty with my knees, but swimming for me is pain free! Although it’s a great way to be active, it also gives you time and space to reflect on things. Swimming always makes me feel better, physically and mentally. There’s not been one occasion where I’ve left the pool and thought ‘I shouldn’t have done that’. I enjoy fundraising, especially for such an incredible charity. It helps raise awareness which is great, even if you’re not able to raise tons of money. I use social media and word of mouth to ask people to sponsor me. My work has been really supportive too and were happy for me to share my challenge with colleagues. I appreciate how difficult it must be for people with spinal cord injuries and their loved ones. If I can make even the smallest difference with my fundraising, I’d be really pleased. I’m keen to make a difference and I would encourage everyone to give it a go! You’ll be more capable than you realise. Sponsor Isabella Aspire Channel Swimmer stories Sign up to the Aspire Channel Swim How we help Manage Cookie Preferences