When Mark Monson first participated in Swim Across America – Dallas in 2016, he joined because he loved to swim and wanted to support a cause that had impacted family and friends affected by cancer.
What began as a way to give back became deeply personal in January 2022 when Mark was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer.
“Before my diagnosis, I supported Swim Across America because of the people in my life who had fought cancer,” said Mark. “After my diagnosis, the swim became much more personal.”
Now 49 and living in Frisco, Texas, Mark is celebrating a milestone that once seemed uncertain: he currently has no evidence of disease.
Mark Munson, Swim Across America – Dallas participant and cancer survivor.
Over the past 10 years, Mark has raised approximately $15,000 for Swim Across America – Dallas. This year, he will once again take part in the annual open water swim on Saturday, September 19 at Lake Rockwall, benefiting Baylor Scott & White Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center.
His experience as both a participant and survivor fuels his commitment to the cause.
“I am motivated to continue raising money because I know precisely where the money goes, and I can see progress being made,” Mark said.
Proceeds from the SAA-Dallas community event are granted to the Texas Cancer Interception Institute (TCII) within Baylor Scott & White. The TCII brings together advanced technology, research and care teams to help detect cancer at its earliest stages — when it is most treatable.
Swim Across America – Dallas community at their event in 2025.
“Fifteen years ago, my diagnosis was a death sentence. At the time I’m writing this, I have no evidence of disease. I want that for everyone who is diagnosed with cancer.”
For Mark, Swim Across America is about more than fundraising. The annual event motivates him to stay active and provides an opportunity to connect with a community united by a common purpose.
“Swim Across America motivates me to keep pushing to be able to swim each year,” he said. “I also enjoy seeing friends there, both old and new.”
As Mark prepares for another Swim Across America – Dallas event, he hopes his story serves as a reminder that every dollar raised helps move cancer research forward and brings hope to patients and families facing a cancer diagnosis.
Swim Across America Founder Matt Vossler, Team Darien YMCA Piranhas and Darien Blue Wave Swimmers Highlight Darien’s Deep Ties to June 20 Cancer Benefit Swim
From the founder of Swim Across America to the next generation of young swimmers diving in to fight cancer, Darien will be well represented at the 20th annual Swim Across America – Fairfield County Open Water Swim on Saturday, June 20, at Dolphin Cove in Stamford.
The annual swim benefits Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy, headquartered in Stamford and the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated to funding cancer cell and gene therapy. Established in 2007, Swim Across America – Fairfield County has raised more than $8.2 million for cancer research, supporting ACGT grants advancing better treatments and clinical trials for brain cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, osteosarcoma, melanoma, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, solid tumors and, this year, ovarian cancer.
For Darien resident Matt Vossler, the Fairfield County swim is part of a much larger story that began nearly four decades ago. Vossler co-founded Swim Across America in 1987 after he and a small group of friends first ran across America, and then decided that more can swim than run, so in 1987, he and a group of swimmers, including some notable Olympians at that time, crossed Long Island Sound to raise money for cancer research. Since then, Swim Across America has grown into a national nonprofit holding open water and pool swims across the country – in 27 communities across America! Vossler remains a constant presence at Swim Across America – Fairfield County, helping lead the safety team and standing on the beach each year to count swimmers down as they enter the water and his family has been involved every year as well, swimming, volunteering, paddle boarding and boating.
Matt Vossler, Swim Across America founder, at the SAA-Fairfield County open water swim.
“Matt Vossler helped create a movement that has changed the landscape of cancer research philanthropy,” said Nancy Carr, event director of Swim Across America – Fairfield County and a two-time cancer survivor. “He is still inspiring the next generation to make waves to fight cancer. It is incredibly special to have that legacy rooted right here in Darien and Fairfield County.”
That next generation includes Shep Jennings, a Darien swimmer and team captain of Team Darien YMCA Piranhas. Shep swims year-round with the Darien YMCA Piranhas and has already made a major impact as a young fundraiser for Swim Across America – Fairfield County. After first joining the swim in 2024, he quickly became one of the event’s top young fundraisers, raising thousands of dollars for cancer research and inspiring teammates, friends and family to get involved.
One of Shep’s YMCA Piranhas teammates is Jedd Gallagher, whose family’s story underscores why cancer research funding matters.
Jedd swims in honor of his grandmother, Mary Jo Re, who passed away in 2024 from glioblastoma, and his father, John Gallagher, a survivor of stage 4 metastatic melanoma. John was diagnosed at age 30, on his birthday, June 20, and battled cancer for eight years. His treatment journey included surgery to remove the original tumor, a vaccine trial, surgeries to remove lung metastases, biochemotherapy, high-dose IL-2, removal of his left lung, six brain surgeries, three rounds of radiation to the brain, oral chemotherapy and interferon shots.
John was treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and was cared for by Jedd Wolchok, MD, Ph.D., a physician-scientist whose work helped establish immunotherapy as a standard approach to cancer treatment. Jedd Gallagher is named in honor of Dr. Wolchok, who helped save his father’s life.
“I swim in honor of my grandmother, Mary Jo Re, who bravely fought and finally succumbed to glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, and for my dad John Gallagher, a survivor of stage 4 metastatic melanoma,” said Jedd Gallagher. “Swim Across America is important to my family as we believe in funding those doctors and researchers who are trying to find cures for some of the most devastating cancers such as those that have impacted my family. I am very proud to be named in honor of Dr. Jedd Wolchok, who saved my dad’s life.”
Darien’s connection to Swim Across America – Fairfield County also extends to the high school swim community. The Darien Blue Wave Swim and Dive team, under longtime coach Marj Trifone and now captained by Caroline Gies and Heili Jalakas, has been a longtime participant in the Fairfield County swim, bringing generations of Darien swimmers into the mission of making waves to fight cancer. Together with Team Darien YMCA Piranhas, Darien’s young swimmers are helping carry forward Swim Across America’s tradition of combining athleticism, teamwork and service to support lifesaving cancer research.
Kids’ Splash participants after swimming along the shore.
The 20th annual Swim Across America – Fairfield County open water swim will take place Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Dolphin Cove, 96 Cummings Point Road, in Stamford, on the Greenwich/Stamford border. The event welcomes swimmers of all ages and skill levels to help make waves to fight cancer. Participants may choose from a half-mile, 1.5-mile or 3-mile swim course, and children ages 11 and younger can participate in a fun Kids’ Splash along the shore. A virtual SAA My Way option is also available. For registration, volunteer opportunities, or to support the swim with a tax-deductible donation, visit swimacrossamerica.org/fc.
“For this 20th year of making waves to fight cancer, we are celebrating the individuals and families who have built this swim and the young swimmers who are carrying it forward,” Nancy Carr said. “From Matt Vossler, who helped launch Swim Across America, to Shep Jennings, Jedd Gallagher, Team Darien YMCA Piranhas and the Darien Blue Wave swimmers, Darien represents the full circle of this mission: swimming with purpose, raising money for research and helping give cancer patients and families hope.”
Participants at SAA-Fairfield County.
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $150 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has helped fund clinical trials that contributed to the FDA-approved cancer immunotherapy medications Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. In the past year, Swim Across America funded a breakthrough clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that showed that immunotherapy alone could successfully treat certain types of cancer. The organization also recently awarded two first-of-its-kind gene editing innovation grants to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, advancing novel CRISPR gene and base editing techniques used in targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cellular therapies. Swim Across America supports more than 60 cancer research projects annually, has eight named Swim Across America labs, and supports work at many of the nation’s leading cancer institutions.
For those interested in swimming, volunteering or donating to the 20th annual Swim Across America – Fairfield County open water swim on Saturday, June 20, please visit swimacrossamerica.org/fc.
Swim Across America is dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment through swimming-related events. With open water and pool swims in 27 communities across the United States – from Nantucket to under the Golden Gate Bridge – Swim Across America, along with the help of thousands of swimmers and volunteers nationwide, and past and current Olympians, is helping find better treatments and a cure for cancer through athleticism, community outreach and direct service. To learn more, visit swimacrossamerica.org.
Team Relay at Ensworth Natatorium to Benefit Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center
Swim Across America, the nonprofit organization that makes waves to fight cancer by holding charity swims across the nation, will host the 5th annual Swim Across America – Nashville Pool Swim on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at the Ensworth Natatorium, 7401 Tennessee Highway 100, in Nashville. The community charity swim is a Team Relay event that welcomes swimmers of all ages and skill levels who are passionate about fighting cancer. Proceeds benefit Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, with a 2026 goal of raising $100,000 to support cancer care and research in Nashville. For registration and volunteer opportunities, or to support the swim with a tax-deductible donation, visit swimacrossamerica.org/nashville.
Established in 2022, Swim Across America – Nashville has raised more than $375,000 for Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, helping support cancer research, care and hope for individuals and families facing cancer.
For 23-year-old Aly Corb, an associate board member with Swim Across America and one of the planning committee members for the Nashville swim, the event is deeply personal. Aly, who currently lives in Knoxville, Tennessee, has been part of Swim Across America since she was just 8 years old and is now participating for her 16th year with the organization. One of the factors in her decision to attend college in Tennessee was the opportunity to help bring Swim Across America to the state. This year, she is diving in again to help organize the Nashville event at the Ensworth Natatorium.
Aly swims in memory of her brother, Michael, who sadly passed away from mixed lineage leukemia when he was just 9 months old. This past March, Aly and her family celebrated what would have been Michael’s 20th birthday; this December will mark 20 years without him.
“Although he lost his battle with cancer when he was only 9 months old, his memory is the reason this cause has meant so much to me and why Swim Across America has become such an important part of my life,” said Aly. “Every year when I swim, I do it in his honor, with the hope that together we can create a different future, one without cancer.”
Aly originally set her 2026 fundraising goal at $20,000 in honor of Michael’s 20th birthday. After quickly surpassing that goal and raising more than $25,000, she increased her goal to $30,000 — a threshold she has never reached before. Throughout the past 15 years with Swim Across America, Aly has raised more than $230,000 for cancer research, including $140,000 benefitting another Swim Across America beneficiary, Johns Hopkins Medicine, where Michael was treated.
“No matter where I swim, the money will still be going to help those fighting for their lives,” said Aly. “Whether you swim, donate or volunteer, you are helping to make a difference and save the lives of current and future cancer patients.”
Aly’s connection to cancer extends beyond her brother. She also swims in memory of her great-aunt Alison, her uncle Michael, and former teammate Garrett Brown, and in honor of family members and friends who have faced cancer.
“To me, this event is not just about raising money to find a cure; it’s to honor and remember those who fought their battle and prevent other parents, siblings and families from going through the loss of a loved one,” noted Aly Corb. “That’s why I want to do everything I can so other families won’t go through what my family and I have gone through.”
Another swimmer, Tara Helmer, who lives in Nashville, also brings a deeply personal connection to the event. For Helmer, Swim Across America combines three important parts of her life: swimming, research, and her own experience as a cancer patient at Vanderbilt.
“I swim because Swim Across America combines three very important aspects of my life,” noted Tara. “My husband and daughter are very involved in the swim community. In fact, my husband is a former swimmer and current high school coach, and my daughter is a competitive swimmer.
Tara has also worked in research administration at Vanderbilt for about 20 years, supporting researchers across the institution. She also has been a cancer patient at Vanderbilt since 2016, when she was initially diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. In 2023, she was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.
“It has been incredibly rewarding to work with brilliant and passionate researchers across the institution over the years,” said Tara. “I am truly blessed and thankful for Dr. Park and all of the other incredible cancer researchers. I know far too many who have been diagnosed with cancer and have lost their lives to it. We’ve come such a long way, but still have a long way to go. Organizations like Swim Across America that support cancer research definitely help move the needle in the right direction. I also know that cancer patients like myself are always buying time until the next treatment or a cure is available. Having an organization dedicated to advancing cancer research is critical, and it gives cancer patients hope. If sharing my story helps even just one patient feel less scared, it is worth it.”
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $150 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has helped fund clinical trials that contributed to the FDA-approved cancer immunotherapy medications Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. In the past year, Swim Across America funded a breakthrough clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that showed that immunotherapy alone could successfully treat certain types of cancer. The organization also recently awarded two first-of-its-kind gene editing innovation grants to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, advancing novel CRISPR gene and base editing techniques used in targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cellular therapies. Swim Across America supports more than 60 cancer research projects annually, has eight named Swim Across America labs, and supports work at many of the nation’s leading cancer institutions.
For those interested in swimming, volunteering or donating to the 5th annual Swim Across America – Nashville Pool Swim on June 14, please visit swimacrossamerica.org/nashville.
Swim Across America, Inc. (SAA) is dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment through swimming-related events. With open water and pool swims in 27 communities across the United States – from Nantucket to under the Golden Gate Bridge – Swim Across America, along with the help of thousands of swimmers and volunteers nationwide, and past and current Olympians, is helping find better treatments and a cure for cancer through athleticism, community outreach and direct service. To learn more, visit swimacrossamerica.org.
Annual Open Water Swim Benefits Cancer Research at University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center
Swim Across America, the national nonprofit organization that makes waves to fight cancer through charity swims across the U.S., will host its eighth annual Swim Across America – Motor City Mile Open Water Swim on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Belle Isle Beach House, at Oakway and Riverbank Drive, in Detroit. The community swim welcomes swimmers of all ages and skill levels, from first-time open water swimmers to veteran athletes and master swimmers, even some Olympic swimmers join in, with swim options including a quarter-mile, half-mile, 1-mile and 2-mile swim. For those unable to participate in person, a virtual SAA My Way option is also available. Proceeds benefit cancer research at the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, where roughly 500 researchers are working to prevent cancer, improve outcomes for those diagnosed and improve quality of life for cancer patients and survivors. To register to swim, volunteer or to support the swim with a tax-deductible donation, visit swimacrossamerica.org/motorcitymile.
“Swim Across America – Motor City Mile is a powerful and inspiring event that brings together swimmers, volunteers, cancer survivors, families and supporters who all share the same goal: making waves to fight cancer,” said Patrick Weiss, one of the event directors of Swim Across America – Motor City Mile, and a cancer survivor himself. “Since our first Detroit swim in 2019, this community has raised more than $600,000 for the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center. Every swimmer, every volunteer and every donor is helping fund research that can lead to better treatments and more hope for patients and families.”
Each year, Swim Across America – Motor City Mile hosts more than 150 swimmers and volunteers, spectators and supporters, as well as Olympians from near and far, for the annual charity swim at Belle Isle Beach.
The impact of the Motor City Mile can be seen in the research it helps seed. Kyoung Lee, Ph.D., with Rogel Cancer Center, went on to receive a $1.4 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to study the role of low oxygen supply in pancreatic cancer. Initial funding for this project was granted by Swim Across America – Motor City Mile and Dr. Lee cites Swim Across America as providing the funding to get the research to where it is today.
“This is exactly why Swim Across America matters,” Patrick Weiss noted. “The funds raised here in Detroit help provide early support for promising research, and that early support can lead to larger grants, new discoveries and progress for cancer patients. It is incredibly meaningful to know that our swimmers and supporters are helping move cancer research forward.”
For swimmer Mary Guyette, of Redford Michigan, the Motor City Mile is deeply personal. She is swimming the 1-mile event in loving memory of her mother and in support of the cancer center that has offered hope to her family and close friends.
“I joined Swim Across America – Motor City Mile to help support the Rogel Cancer Center at the University of Michigan because they have offered hope and support to family and close friends of mine, including my mom,” Mary Guyette said. “This year, I will be participating in the 1-mile swim event, in loving memory of my mom.”
Swimmer Allison Randall of Livonia, Michigan, first participated in Swim Across America – Motor City Mile in 2019, swimming a half-mile in open water for the first time and raising $800. Since then, she has returned each year, committed to swimming and raising as much as she can. This year, her swim has taken on even greater meaning.
“In March, my boyfriend was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor,” Allison Randall shared. “He underwent surgery to remove it, and we later learned it is ATRT, a rare, grade 4 cancer that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. He and his family are now working with an incredible team of doctors, surgeons, nurses and support staff at the University of Michigan hospital to develop the best possible treatment plan. One of the things I’ve always valued most about the Swim Across America – Motor City Mile swim is that funds raised directly support the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, something that now means even more to me. Their mission has three parts: patient care, research and education. This event plays a role in advancing all three.”
Another longtime Swim Across America – Motor City Mile participant, Kara Wolter (Herzfeld), is a metastatic osteosarcoma survivor and the event’s current No. 1 individual fundraiser, having raised more than $5,300 so far for the 2026 swim. Kara was diagnosed in March 2017 at age 26 with bone cancer that began in her left knee and spread to her lungs. Over three years, she underwent six different chemotherapies, multiple biopsies, procedures and surgeries, ultimately losing her left leg above the knee and having six lung wedge resection surgeries to remove tumors in her lungs. Kara has been given the designation of NED — no evidence of disease — for five years and is now a 35-year-old cancer survivor.
“Swimming is one of the few activities that makes me feel normal now, even with the loss of my leg,” Kara said. Kara began swimming at age 10 and now works as an assistant coach for the same swim team where she learned to swim. She has participated in Swim Across America – Motor City Mile for seven years to support the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center. “The money that I raise will support the Rogel Cancer Center to further research and treatment options for all different types of cancers,” Kara noted.
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $150 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has helped fund clinical trials that contributed to the FDA-approved cancer immunotherapy medications Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. In the past year, Swim Across America funded a breakthrough clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that showed that immunotherapy alone could successfully treat certain types of cancer. The organization also recently awarded two first-of-its-kind gene editing innovation grants to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, advancing novel CRISPR gene and base editing techniques used in targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cellular therapies. Swim Across America supports more than 60 cancer research projects annually, has eight named Swim Across America labs, and supports work at many of the nation’s leading cancer institutions.
For those interested in swimming, volunteering or donating to the eighth annual Swim Across America – Motor City Mile Open Water Swim on July 10, please visit swimacrossamerica.org/motorcitymile.
Swim Across America, Inc. (SAA) is dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment through swimming-related events. With open water and pool swims in 27 communities across the United States – from Nantucket to under the Golden Gate Bridge – Swim Across America, along with the help of thousands of swimmers and volunteers nationwide, and past and current Olympians, is helping find better treatments and a cure for cancer through athleticism, community outreach and direct service. To learn more, visit swimacrossamerica.org.
Presenting the 2025 Impact Report for Swim Across America.
We are proud to present our 2025 impact report, a high-level overview of Swim Across America, its communities, events, and beneficiary programs. The generosity, dedication, and support from events in 2025 strengthen our commitment to awarding grants to innovative cancer research, clinical trials, detection, and patient programs through charity swims that unite communities in the fight against cancer.
A letter from Rob Butcher, the CEO of Swim Across America:
Dear Swim Across America Community,
We began with a simple yet bold belief, that a community united in purpose can turn hope into action by innovating new cancer treatments and improving quality of life. Because of you, that belief is becoming a reality.
Coast-to-coast and all year long, survivors, advocates, and partners raised critical funds that directly support innovative research, advance detection, and improved patient programs. Every dollar granted is action towards breakthroughs and support for families navigating the unimaginable. We are unique that the funds raised in each community stay local, strengthening relationships with academic and community partners, and ensuring donors know the impact of their generosity.
We celebrate progress because families continue to hear the words, “You have cancer” and deserve to hear, “There is Hope.” We are committed to sharing our impact and inspiring generations to Make Waves to Fight Cancer with Swim Across America.
With funding from Swim Across America – Boston, researchers at the Perini Family Survivors’ Center have developed innovative new protocols for treating long-term negative impacts of childhood cancer treatments, including sleep disorders, sexual dysfunction, and relationship challenges.
In April 2026, 30 Swim Across America – Boston (SAA-Boston) participants, volunteers, donors, and patients visited Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for presentations from five researchers, followed by a special tour of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) facilities.
Researchers at the Perini Family Survivors’ Center use Swim Across America-Boston funds to test innovative new patient interventions and expand successful treatment protocols to culturally Latino communities
Director of Research Christopher Recklitis Ph.D., MPH, originally a Swim Across America Fellow at DFCI and who has swum the SAA-Boston event in Pleasure Bay, provided an overview of Project REACH, which encompasses a range of interdisciplinary, longitudinal studies targeting improved outcomes for survivors of childhood cancers. As more and more people survive childhood cancers, they form a growing population of patients who experience a wide variety of life-altering negative impacts of cancer treatment. Project REACH studies the unique cohort of DFCI
To date, Project REACH has published 21 peer-reviewed publications from 38 investigators and trainees, fulfilling two goals of expanding research while launching careers of the next generation of top research talent. As a result, at least 13 other major cancer institutions around the U.S. have investigators who were funded by Swim Across America at some point.
“SAA funding gives us the flexibility that no one else has to innovate when unexpected needs arise,” Dr. Recklitis explained. For example, in 2020, Project REACH used SAA funds to pilot a study of virtual treatment visits for survivors. The pilot began in April 2020, and they were able to publish the results in November of the same year. “Simply put, research never moves that quickly, primarily because funding requires more lead time. SAA funds enabled us to change course on a dime. Moreover, we were able to share our findings with practitioners around the world by publishing.”
Explaining her “Bridging the Gap” programs, Teresa Neira, PhD, LISCW explained the work she has been able to do to translate proven protocols to Spanish language and Latin cultural norms, making the benefits available to a significantly larger number of childhood cancer survivors. Dr. Neira explained that translating a treatment protocol is not simply about language, but also about cultural norms and points of reference. With cultural adaptations, Latino and Latina survivors are more open to and better able to access the benefits that are more readily available to English speaking Perini Center patients.
Director of the Perini Family Survivors’ Center Lisa Diller MD emphasized the flexibility that SAA-Boston funding enables. Since 2020, multiple SAA-funded researchers at DFCI have been able to secure large grants from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) by demonstrating promising results in a smaller Project REACH cohort. “These smaller test studies simply wouldn’t have been possible without the flexibility provided by SAA funds,” Dr. Diller said.
One such researcher, Lydia Chevalier, PhD, who also has swum the SAA-Boston event, opened by saying, “Swim Across America Fellowship completely changed the trajectory of my career.” In her fellowship, Dr. Chevalier found that, in her Project REACH respondent pool, 32% of the young adult cancer survivors (YACS) reported sexual dysfunction and 34% of YACS reported that they were sexually inactive. As one patient said to her, “How do you date when you’re scared to have sex?” SAA-Boston funding gave Dr. Chevalier the flexibility to shift her focus to deeply impactful work and secure a larger grant from the NCI.
Trainee Alexis Michaud (PhD candidate in Clinical Psychology) began working with Project REACH during the first year of her PhD program and developed one of her projects into her dissertation work. She is developing a Phase 2a proof of concept trial assessing the effectiveness of On-Trac, a brief online intervention to address anxiety to suit the particular needs of childhood cancer survivors, which are different from standard cognitive behavioral approaches. Michaud shared that the opportunity to do this level of research as a doctoral candidate was exceptional.
SAA-Boston visitors came away with a renewed sense of purpose and energy. As a twelve-year-old participant said, because of SAA-Boston funding, the Perini Center researchers “have seed money for the small ideas that turn programs into the standard of care at Dana-Farber, which other Cancer institutions mimic.” We are so proud to support this important work that benefits childhood cancer survivors.
Hundreds of swimmers and volunteers are getting ready to dive in and make waves to fight cancer at the 10th annual Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Night Heron Park, on Kiawah Island in South Carolina. The event raises crucial funds for cancer research at the Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. Swimmers of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part in the annual Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim. Participants can swim a 1/2-mile or 1.5-mile open water swim, or participate in a same-day pool swim. For those not able to be there in-person, a SAA My Way virtual option is available. For registration and volunteer opportunities (volunteer on the land or water), or to support the swim with a tax-deductible donation, visit swimacrossamerica.org/charleston.
The SAA-Charleston-Kiawah community after the 2025 open water swim.
Established in 2017, Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah has raised more than $600,000 for its beneficiary, Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. Each year, the event proudly hosts more than 150 swimmers, volunteers, spectators and supporters, as well as Olympians from near and far, for this inspiring community swim.
“The Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim is one of the most inspiring events you will ever attend,” said Jana Chanthabane, event director of the Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim. “The gathering of so many families and individuals who are honoring those who have been touched by cancer, whether they are survivors, currently battling, or have lost someone, is truly incredible. The feeling of wanting to make a change and to do something for those who have experienced cancer is huge.”
Chanthabane knows firsthand the impact of raising funds for cancer research. She is a breast cancer survivor who has been cancer-free for 13 years. She was diagnosed in 2013 at the young age of 35 while raising three young children. Her personal journey is one of the reasons she has remained deeply committed to Swim Across America and its mission.
To support Jana, her family is swimming and volunteering with Team Chanthabanes Cheating Cancer. Jana’s daughter Ella Chanthabane notes that 2026 represents a powerful milestone.
“2026 marks Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah’s 10-year anniversary, and for me and my mom, that means 10 years of commitment to the mission,” said Ella Chanthabane. “Commitment to fighting cancer, making waves, and honoring those we’ve lost, as well as survivors like my mom, is really incredible. We got involved because, like everyone, we had been touched by cancer. We stayed because we believe in the Swim Across America mission and the work being done to support MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, where my mom was treated for breast cancer.”
Jana and Ella Chanthabane, pictured at the 2025 SAA-Motor City Mile open water swim.
Among this year’s participants is John Rhodes with Team Axes Endurance Club, who participates in memory of his father and in honor of many others affected by cancer. “I am passionate about Swim Across America and dedicate my time in memory of my father, John Rhodes, who was diagnosed with skin, prostate and thyroid cancer,” said John Rhodes. “In 2001, I began getting skin cancer screenings due to my father’s extensive skin cancer diagnosis and was found to have a basal cell carcinoma, which was successfully removed. Many other friends and family have been diagnosed with cancer, and Swim Across America’s goal of beating cancer through advancements in treatments has already resulted in the saving of many lives around the world. Without Swim Across America’s early-stage funding, researchers are not able to conduct trials that can lead to breakthroughs that save lives.”
Another returning swimmer is Ellen Sullivan with the team Pawleys Island Freestylers, who is taking part in her fourth Swim Across America event. “My journey with Swim Across America began four years ago when my high school swim coach and Olympic swimmer, Craig Beardsley, invited me to support the Kiawah event,” said Ellen Sullivan. “Since then, I have lost both my beloved mother and father to cancer. A close friend has bravely battled and triumphed over her own diagnosis, and my dear colleague continues to fight courageously against recurring cancer. These personal experiences have given me even more reason to swim. I swim to make a difference.”
Sullivan’s teammate Stefanie Whitmire, also with Team Pawleys Island Freestylers, is swimming as both a survivor and an advocate for others facing the disease. “I joined Swim Across America for so many reasons,” said Stefanie Whitmire. “I have many friends who have fought cancer, and this year, I am also swimming for myself. I have never been as scared as when I found out I had cancer — especially when it was a rare cancer. The news was unexpected and came right before Christmas. My surgeons and doctors were amazing. They saw me through two major surgeries, six months of chemotherapy and continued monitoring. I learned so much about my inner strength, my faith and my determination. I want to give back and support the research that will fight cancer. I want others to see there is hope and life in the darkness.”
Irene Row with Team West Ashley Whales is also swimming for a loved one. Her husband, Michael, was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer in 2017 and continues to fight the disease. “My husband, Michael, was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer in 2017, and he has been fighting this disease ever since,” said Row. “We both have family members and friends with other forms of cancer, and some of them have passed away. Michael found out about Swim Across America in 2018 and we both love that it raises money for a worthy cause — funding much-needed cancer research.”
Another standout returning team is Team Baucom, led by Barry Baucom of Kiawah, along with his wife Louise and son Ryan, who happens to be vice president of marketing for Swim Across America. The family has raised more than $60,000 over the past ten years to support cancer research and clinical trials at Hollings Cancer Center.
Team Baucom at the 2025 SAA-Charleston-Kiawah open water swim.
The funds raised by Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah support cancer research and clinical trials at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, with funds currently supporting both the Ferreira Lab, dedicated to designing and developing engineered immune cell therapies for autoimmune disease, cancer and aging, as well as a pediatric brain cancer grant.
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $150 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has helped fund clinical trials that contributed to the FDA-approved cancer immunotherapy medications Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. In the past year, Swim Across America funded a breakthrough clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that showed that immunotherapy alone could successfully treat certain types of cancer. The organization also recently awarded two first-of-its-kind gene editing innovation grants to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, advancing novel CRISPR gene and base editing techniques used in targeted therapies, immunotherapies and cellular therapies. Swim Across America supports more than 60 cancer research projects annually, has eight named Swim Across America labs, and supports work at many of the nation’s leading cancer institutions.For those interested in swimming, volunteering or donating at the 10th annual Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim on June 6, 2026, visit swimacrossamerica.org/charleston, or follow on Instagram and Facebook @saacharlestonkiawah.
Read or watch local stories featuring the Swim Across America-Nassau/Suffolk community to learn about their impact. Learn more about the event and beneficiaries at swimacrossamerica.org/ns.
Read or watch local stories featuring the Swim Across America-Motor City Mile community to learn about their impact. Learn more about the event and beneficiary, Rogel Cancer Center, at swimacrossamerica.org/detroit.
Choi’s next generation CAR-T therapy, funded in part by SAA-Boston and SAA-Nantucket, has shown “dramatic and rapid” regression of glioblastoma
With early funding from Swim Across America – Boston and Swim Across America – Nantucket, Dr. Bryan Choi’s research on tandem CAR T-cell therapy for ependymoma was approved for a Phase I trial. The first human patient was infused at the end of April 2023. The results of the first human trials, as described in 2024 by the New England Journal of Medicine, showed “dramatic and rapid” regression of glioblastoma.
In an exclusive briefing to Swim Across America participants, Dr. Bryan Choi, a neurosurgeon and neuro-oncologist at Massachusetts General Cancer Center, delivered an update on his research path.
From left, brain tumors, marked by red and green arrows, disappear a day after CAR-T immunotherapy treatment. From CNN.
The Swim Across America lab visit included not only highlights from on the ongoing Phase I trial, but also a few first-hand stories about the life-changing impacts of the new CAR-T cell therapy for one of the patients, who has chosen to share his story publicly.
Tom Fraser (Patient #2) has shared his story publicly with news outlets that include CNN and New York Magazine.
Tom Fraser, 72, (center, in the blue shirt) was treated with a single infusion of CAR-T cells. Two days later, an MRI showed a decrease in the tumor’s size by 18.5 percent. By day 69, the tumor had decreased by 60.7 percent, and the response was sustained for over 6 months. From The Harvard Gazette.
CAR T-cell therapy, a type of gene therapy that engineers a patient’s own T-cells (a type of white blood cells) to identify and attack cancer cells by way of their antigen markers, has shown promise in the treatment of blood cancers. The research team created dual antigen-targeting tandem CAR T (TanCART) cells to target heterogeneous solid tumors. Dr. Choi’s research shows that this type of therapy can also be manipulated to treat solid tumors like ependymoma.
At the suggestion of Dr. Howard Weinstein, Unit Chief of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Mass General for Children and long-time Swim Across America partner, Dr. Choi applied for a Swim Across America research grant through the internal competitive bid program at Mass General for Children.
Dr. Choi recruiting the next generation of researchers, like SAA – Nantucket supporter, Braden Hussey.
Without the Swim Across America grant, Dr. Choi said, his research likely would have remained unfunded, and neither the FDA approval nor the Phase I Study approval, which is funded by industry investors, would have been possible.
Janel Jorgensen McArdle, Chief Operating Officer of Swim Across America, pointed out that Dr. Choi’s research falls in the “sweet spot” of the high risk, high reward research that Swim Across America is pursuing.
“This promising research aligned perfectly with the opportunities that Swim Across America seeks to support,” said McArdle. “We are so excited that SAA funding could help accelerate it to patient trials – and are thrilled to see the benefits to patients!”
Dr. Choi explained CAR-T cell therapy to the Swim Across America group on April 4, 2025.
After his highly informative presentation, Dr. Choi gave the Swim Across America group a private tour of his lab spaces, which were in the finishing stages of build-out when they toured two years ago.
The group also got to visit the Ether Dome at Mass General, the surgical amphitheater where, in 1846, the first public surgery with anesthesia was performed.
It was an exciting visit for Swim Across America news and for all of the Swim Across America – Boston and Nantucket supporters who were present!
Swim Across America lab visit participants, pictured with Dr. Choi in the Ether Dome at Mass General, site of the first use of anesthesia in public surgery.
Swim Across America 