

and help Jonathan meet his goal to raise $100,000
Lori's strength and attitude are the inspiration for my swim. She could not control the fact that she had cholangiocarcinoma and she stayed strong and positive through her entire journey. The thought of swimming across the English Channel is very scary. And I do have a choice. My choice is to use Lori’s inspiration to get me across, the same way she handled her cancer journey.
-Jonathan Whiting
English Channel Fast Facts
- The English Channel is 21 miles straight across. Because of tides and currents, the swimming route is an S pattern making it closer to 26 - 28 miles.
- It takes 7 hours to 27 hours to complete the swim
- Water temperature is 57 - 60 degrees Fahrenheit
- Fewer than 2,000 solo swimmers have completed the swim
- Only 1 in 10 who train complete the swim
- The swimmer is not allowed to touch another human while completing the route. Food has to be delivered by a long pole from the escort boat.
Updates
Dear Team:
When I came up with the idea of swimming across the English Channel to raise money and awareness for cholangiocarcinoma, I had no idea what would follow. I knew I would honor my late wife Lori, and that idea gave me strength and purpose. I also hoped this mission would somehow help and benefit those currently diagnosed and those who may receive a diagnosis in the future. I felt I would continue the strength Lori showed me to help others.
What I discovered was something truly amazing. The support of the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation staff, who assisted me in my efforts, was unbelievable. It energized me and pushed me to meet my objectives. They were always there for me and always helping me.
In addition, the support of the cholangiocarcinoma community, including patients and caregivers, was also outstanding, as well as family, friends, and others that I wish I had the opportunity to meet. While swimming, during my most challenging moments, I would think of the people who supported me and followed my journey. I would also ponder what patients and families have been through and are going through. I could genuinely feel everyone's presence while swimming for our common objective, which made such a difference. Of course, the thought of Lori and my children, Cole and Emma, never left my mind.
Lori was never afraid. And I was never scared during my swim (thanks to Lori). But I think it's OK to be frightened. I believe there is great comfort and hope for everyone in our community. I experienced this from all of you. Therefore, I am saying thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Jonathan
CONGRATULATIONS, JONATHAN
Jonathan's safety came first. At 9.5 hours (longest straight swim) and 12.5 miles completed (longest swim ever), Jonathan ended his swim in the English Channel. He fought 4-foot waves and strong tide flows for as long as he could. Well done, Jonathan.
Journey to Complete the Journey
Cold showers daily for two years Ice baths lasting 10-15 minutes a few times a week Swim 4-5 days a week, two-mile intervals during the week, longer swims on weekends Work, swim, sleep, repeat has been one man’s routine for the last two years. All his hard work and dedication are about to pay off.…
The Sugar Shack
A successful swim is built around endurance but support from others is a mental lift when the physical body is fatigued. Barbi Frances was aware of that and decided to make sure her customers did, too. Posted in her downtown Kirkwood store, The Sugar Shack, is an article from the Webster-Kirkwood Times and a container…
60-year-old St. Louis man trains to swim the English Channel to honor his late wife who died from cholangiocarcinoma
Jonathan Whiting raises rare bile duct cancer awareness with ’21 Miles of Hope’ fundraising campaign to benefit the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation For nearly two years, Jonathan Whiting has been training to swim the English Channel in honor of his late wife, Lori Whiting, and to raise awareness and funds for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. The rare bile…
Why 21 Miles of Hope?
How I met Lori and Life up to Diagnosis I was playing music in a club at a happening nightspot, when one of my very best friends named, Debbie, brought out a group of friends to see me. They were all my friends but there was someone in the group I had never met. That…
Press
- Kirkwood's Jonathan Whiting Attempts To Swim English Channel In 9.5-Hour Battle
- Kirkwood Man will Swim English Channel!
- Triathlete In Training To Swim English Channel
- 21 Miles of Hope: Jonathan Whiting - Hancock & Kelley
- Holleman: St. Louis County widower aims to deliver hope with English Channel swim
- 'I want to use the strength she showed me': Kirkwood man to swim English Channel to honor his late wife
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