Many moons ago, I arrived at Gatwick Airport filled with a mixture of nervous anticipation and mild panic. I was heading to the Dominican Republic on a press trip, tasked with writing about its pristine white sands, enticing turquoise waters, and lush tropical surroundings. As usual, my luggage was overweight—my perennial travel hazard—but that wasn’t the biggest source of my unease. What truly unsettled me was the idea of travelling with a group of complete strangers.
Press trips can be unpredictable. They sometimes feel like entering a version of the Big Brother house: you meet people who may turn out to be lifelong friends, or you spend the entire time wishing for an early eviction. Thankfully, fate was on my side. Among my fellow journalists were two exceptional women—now widely known and respected—Sarah White and Gemma Calvert. Even back then, it was clear they were destined to shine in their field. Warm, witty, and brilliant, they lit up the trip from the moment we met, and we laughed our way across the Caribbean.
So, when a WhatsApp message pinged onto my phone recently from Sarah announcing she would be swimming the English Channel, I wasn’t remotely surprised. If anyone possesses the determination, spirit, and zest for life required to take on one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges, it is Sarah.
At 2Shades, we are immensely proud to support this amazing woman. Here is her remarkable story—and how you can join us in helping her raise funds for a truly life-changing cause.
Sarah’s Challenge: A Swim Like No Other
Sarah White, a passionate sea swimmer from Hythe, has long admired those courageous enough to take on the English Channel. Considered the Everest of open-water swimming, the Channel is unpredictable, cold, and relentlessly demanding. Yet, on 29 August 2026, Sarah will join a team of five fellow swimmers to attempt an English Channel Relay Swim, covering an extraordinary 21 miles in what may become a grueling 14–16 hour journey.
This is not simply a personal challenge; it is a mission driven by heart.
Sarah is aiming to raise £5,000 for Aspire, a charity devoted to supporting people with life-changing spinal cord injuries. Their work helps individuals regain independence, rebuild confidence, and reclaim their futures. The need is urgent: every two hours, someone in the UK becomes paralysed due to a spinal cord injury.
A Message from Sarah White
“As a passionate sea swimmer from Hythe, I’ve been inspired by the incredible journeys of others who have taken on the challenge of swimming the Channel.
On 29 August 2026, I will join five others in attempting the English Channel Relay Swim, covering approximately 21 miles in what could be a gruelling 14- to 16-hour journey.
I am raising £5,000 for Aspire, a charity dedicated to providing support and fostering independence for individuals with life-changing spinal injuries. This cause is incredibly important; every two hours someone is paralysed due to a spinal cord injury. By supporting Aspire, we can make a significant difference to the lives of those affected.
I’ve already begun my training regime to prepare for this monumental challenge, but I need your help to reach my fundraising goal. Please consider donating whatever you can to this worthy cause. Your contribution will not only support Aspire but also inspire hope and resilience in those facing spinal injuries.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast, and completely secure. Your details are safe with them—they will never sell your information or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, your money goes directly to the charity, making it the most efficient way to contribute and ensuring that every penny counts towards helping those in need.”
Why Her Story Matters
Sarah’s challenge is more than a swim—it’s a powerful reminder of the strength of community, determination, and empathy. Watching someone you once giggled with on a sun-drenched beach take on one of the world’s greatest endurance feats is nothing short of inspiring.
Her journey is a testament to what can happen when courage meets compassion.
And she isn’t doing it alone. Every donation, every share, and every message of support helps carry her across those vast, unpredictable waters.
2Shades Magazine 