Rachel 2mile Serpentine Swim

My Story

Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of my fundraising for over 20 years, ever since we tragically lost my cousin Tracie at just 32 years old. Over the years, I have seen first hand the devastating impact of cancer on so many families, including my own, some winning their battles thanks to incredible treatments, but heartbreakingly, some losing loved ones far too soon. In September 2026, I’ll be diving (quite literally!) into my next challenge—the 2-mile Serpentine Swim in Hyde Park, London. Now, as someone who has only ever done breaststroke with my head firmly out of the water, this is a real challenge from scratch. I’ve never put my face in the water, never swum front crawl, and, quite frankly, I’m not the biggest fan of being out of my depth in a lake with 6,000 other swimmers, so what could possibly go wrong?! But training has started, and I’m determined to push through because every stroke will help raise life saving funds for Cancer Research UK. To date, we have raised an incredible £152,909.00, and with your support, we can keep going, making a real difference to those affected by cancer. Some of My Past Challenges (What Was I Thinking?!) Over the years, I have taken on some truly tough challenges—physically, mentally, and sometimes questioning my life choices mid event, all in the name of raising money for this incredible cause. From: 🏃‍♀️ Running the New York & London Marathons ⛰ Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 🚴‍♀️ Cycling from London to Paris 🎒 Trekking to Machu Picchu ✈ Skydiving from 15,000ft (gulp!) 🛁 Braving ice bath challenges in lockdown 🚴‍♀️ Cycling 100 miles in RideLondon …to trekking the height of Everest in the Everest in the Lakes Challenge, battling 70mph winds and relentless rain. (I definitely questioned my choices on that one!) Why I Keep Going Every challenge I take on is for those we have lost, for those still fighting, and for those who will be diagnosed in the future. Cancer affects too many lives, and I truly believe that together, we CAN and WILL make a difference. Your support means everything—let’s keep up the fight, one stroke, one step, and one challenge at a time! Thank you, Rachel xx