Inspiring Through the Waves: My Channel Swim Story

We are always excited to discover inspiring stories involving young individuals!

This blog post is from Sahishnu, an Achievement Award winner who raised funds for Mencap by swimming the English Channel!

About Me

Hi, I’m Sahishnu, and I was humbled to receive the Jack Petchey Achievement Award for my Channel swim and fundraising efforts for Mencap. This journey pushed me to my physical and mental limits, tested my resilience, and reinforced my passion for making a difference. I hope my story inspires you to chase bold dreams and turn the impossible into reality.

Sahishnu on the boat

Where It All Began

It started with a simple yet powerful idea: to challenge myself while giving back. The English Channel—a 21-mile stretch of icy, unpredictable water—was the ultimate test of endurance. With its powerful tides, bone-chilling temperatures, and constant uncertainty, it seemed impossible, especially for someone my age. But that impossibility was exactly why I had to do it.

This wasn’t just about me. It was about shining a spotlight on Mencap, a charity close to my heart that transforms the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. I wanted every stroke to mean something bigger. Swimming as part of a three-person relay team added even more significance—this wasn’t just personal; it was about teamwork, purpose, and hope.

Pushing Past Limits

Training for the Channel was gruelling. Endless hours in freezing water, battling rough tides, and building stamina pushed me further than I ever thought I could go. There were days I wanted to give up. The cold bit through my skin, and exhaustion felt like a constant companion. But every time doubt crept in, I thought about why I started.

Raising over £1,100 for Mencap wasn’t just about hitting a fundraising target—it was about creating opportunity and hope for others. Every donation and word of encouragement gave me the fuel to keep going.

Teamwork was my anchor. We faced the toughest moments together, cheering each other on, sharing laughs, and refusing to quit. The power of collaboration turned a daunting challenge into an unforgettable journey.

Sahishnu swimming the English Channel

The Swim of a Lifetime

The day we faced the Channel was unforgettable. With each stroke, I felt the weight of the challenge—the strong currents, the relentless cold, and the sheer vastness of the sea. Yet, step by step, we pushed forward, determined to finish what we started.

Crossing the finish line was surreal. Exhaustion gave way to pure pride and joy. We had done it—not just for ourselves, but for the cause we believed in. It was proof that even the toughest challenges can be conquered with purpose, preparation, and teamwork.

Map view of Sahishnu’s journey across the English Channel

What I Learned

Looking back, this journey taught me a profound truth: our limits exist only in our minds. The obstacles we fear are the very ones that shape us when we face them head-on.

Being recognized with the Jack Petchey Award was an incredible honour. It reminded me that our accomplishments have a ripple effect—they inspire others to aim higher, dream bigger, and believe in their own potential.

Sahishnu swimming the English Channel

What’s Your Channel?

What challenge will you take on? What goal feels just out of reach? Whatever it is, know this: with determination, purpose, and the courage to begin, you can achieve more than you ever thought possible.

The English Channel was my test. But challenges come in many forms—physical, personal, or even in the pursuit of helping others. The key is to embrace them.