When Steven Carroll arrives at Swim Across America – Dallas this year, he won’t be diving into the water. Instead, he’ll be behind the microphone as the event DJ, helping create an atmosphere of celebration, hope and inspiration for everyone to enjoy.

For Steven, every song played and every smile shared has a deeper purpose.

In July 2022, Steven was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Since his diagnosis, he has undergone a stem cell transplant, countless treatments and continues to receive monthly care. Thanks to advances in cancer research, he’s able to spend more time with his wife, Donna, their children, grandson and loved ones.

“The treatments that have given me more time exist because someone before me invested in cancer research,” Steven said. “I want to help create that same hope for the people who will hear the words, ‘You have cancer,’ tomorrow.”

Now, Swim Across America holds special meaning because Steven has experienced firsthand how research changes lives. Every dollar raised supports the discoveries that give patients more treatment options, more hope and more time. Proceeds from the Swim Across America – Dallas event support the Texas Cancer Interception Institute at Baylor Scott & White Cancer Center.

“Every breakthrough isn’t just a medical milestone,” he said. “It’s another birthday, another anniversary, another chance for a family to make memories together.”

It’s the family who inspired Steven to adopt his mantra, “Fight Like a Freak” that helped him during his battle. 

“My sister Lori Lee, who recently passed away from ovarian cancer, told me one day, ‘You’re just fighting like a freak.’ I loved it, so I decided to make that my motto,” shared Steven.

He wore a shirt emblazoned with the word “freak” to every appointment and treatment. It was a reminder to keep fighting no matter what.

“Every story matters,” Steven said. “If sharing mine encourages someone to volunteer, donate or simply keep fighting, then it’s worth telling.”

By bringing energy, encouragement and hope to the SAA-Dallas event, Steven is helping ensure that every participant, survivor and family member knows they are part of a mission creating more tomorrows for families facing cancer.

If you are inspired to support SAA-Dallas, give here.