Gemma, a former RAF Senior Aircraftwoman, is part of a four-woman relay team that will battle jellyfish, 40,000-tonne cargo ships and very cold sea temperatures over the course of 16-18 hours.
“We’re doing this challenge to prove that we can,” explains Gemma. “To show what women – what veterans – can do. And to raise money for causes that change lives.”
After serving for 11 years in the RAF, Gemma’s military career was cut short due to a fractured back, which meant she could no longer meet deployable medical standards.
“It was heartbreaking,” she says. “The RAF was my world. I had to rebuild not just my career, but my whole identity. I wanted to find something that tested me physically and mentally. Something with purpose – and a bit of madness!”
Each team member is fundraising for a cause close to them. Gemma has chosen Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance – a charity she’s witnessed in action and holds close to her heart. Coincidentally, it also uses a Leonardo AW169 helicopter.
“I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work they do,” she says. “We’re funding the swim entirely ourselves, so 100% of the donations go straight to the charity. It’s my way of giving back to a lifesaving service that never stops.”
Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance Events Manager, Georgia Watson, said: "We are delighted that Gemma is swimming for LNAA. We rely completely on donations, so every challenge our supporters do to raise funds for us is truly an inspiration. Good luck Gemma!"
During a swim window of 1-10 July, Gemma and her teammates Vikki, Juliette and Anne (who’s coming over from France) will swim across one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes – from Samphire Hoe in Dover to Cap Gris-Nez in France – rotating one-hour slots continuously. They've been able to secure the Number One pilot slot, giving them the best shot at favourable tides and weather during their challenge.
A recent training weekend in Dover gave the team a taste of what’s to come – choppy seas, strong tides and a healthy dose of nerves – but it also proved their resilience.
“We came away tired, sunburnt and a bit salty – but stronger than ever,” says Gemma determinedly. “France is in our sights, and we’re not backing down.”