Zyan Masdammer

Final Stretch of the 8K October Challenge 🏃‍♀️💦

As October draws to a close, I’m heading into the final stretch of my 8K challenge — and what a journey it’s been! When I first set out to complete this challenge, I wanted to do something meaningful for a cause very close to my heart (quite literally!).

I want to take a moment to say a huge thank you to everyone who has already donated, shared words of encouragement, or simply followed along with my progress. Your support has truly kept me motivated through every step — and every stroke!

This challenge is dedicated to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), a place that means the world to me. I was under their incredible care until I turned 18 due to a congenital heart condition. From numerous surgeries to countless checkups, the doctors, nurses, and staff at GOSH showed me not just exceptional medical care, but genuine kindness and compassion every step of the way.

Now, as I celebrate my 26th birthday, I wanted to give back to the hospital that quite literally helped me get here. This challenge is my way of saying thank you — and helping GOSH continue their life-changing work for children and families just like mine.

To reach the full 8K goal, I’ll be mixing things up and including walking alongside swimming to complete the distance. Every kilometer brings me one step closer to my target, and every donation — no matter how big or small — helps make a difference for the incredible team at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

If you haven’t yet, please consider donating or sharing my page to help spread the word. Together, we can make a real impact!

Thank you all again for your generosity, love, and support — let’s finish this strong! 💪❤️

I’m swimming 8km in October for GOSH Charity!

I’m challenging myself to swim 8km this October to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity).

Childhood is special. It should be a time of joy, wonder, curiosity and fun. Of making friends, making mistakes, and growing into the adults we become. But it’s also fragile, and sometimes all too brief.

That’s why Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity raises funds to help give seriously ill children childhoods that are fuller, funner and longer. For the children from all over the UK who are treated by Great Ormond Street Hospital every day, for children with rare or complex illnesses everywhere, for this generation and all those to come. Because no childhood should be lost to serious illness.

And with every kilometre I swim, and every pound raised, we’ll be helping to give seriously ill children the best chance and the best childhood possible.

Please help me to achieve my goal by giving whatever you can; no amount is too small to make a difference.