CALL 01908690544
They say that swimming is a conversation between your body and your mind. For me, attempting the 2-mile Swim Serpentine Challenge in both 2023 and 2025 became more than just a personal athletic goal — it became a mission anchored in purpose.
Back in 2023, I registered for the Serpentine 2-mile swim on a crisp London morning, nerves fluttering in equal measure to excitement. As I stepped into the water, the cool ripple of the Serpentine pushed gently against me, and I settled into a steady rhythm — stroke, breath, stroke, breath. The distance felt long, but every time fatigue threatened, I thought: this is for something bigger. By the time I touched the finish, the exhilaration was profound — not just for completing the swim, but for knowing I’d helped raise funds for Walking With The Wounded.
Fast forward to 2025, and I knew I couldn’t let that momentum slip. Training had come between clinic hours, early mornings and weekends in the pool, and mental gearing up. But come race day, I felt familiar resolve. Again I slipped into the cool water, retraced those strokes, fought the fatigue, and emerged at the end as a finisher — this time with even more gratitude for what such an effort can symbolize.
I was supported by Elle from Walking with Wounded and I would like to encourage anyone who would like to undertake the Serpentine 2 Mile Swim to support this friendly and amazing charity.
Why Walking With The Wounded? Because as a clinician, I believe in restoring strength, function, and dignity. This UK charity supports former service personnel — veterans — by providing tailored programmes in employment, mental health, and support care coordination. walkingwiththewounded.org.uk+2GOV.UK+2 Through their work, veterans who may have suffered physical, psychological or social wounds find pathways back to independent, purposeful lives. walkingwiththewounded.org.uk+2walkingwiththewounded.org.uk+2
Over those two swims, I’m proud to have raised funds, awareness, and connection. Every stroke was dedicated to those who served — and the belief that we, as a society, owe them more than gratitude. If you’d like to learn more or support their vital work, visit Walking With The Wounded here.
Thank you to everyone who cheered, donated, or simply believed. I look forward to next time — and to continuing to swim, serve, and support those who have served.
— Dr Jonathan Grendelmeier, Advanced Pain Relief Clinic MK