Category: #MakingWavesToFightCancer

FROM GRIEF TO HOPE, ELLIE WEHRMANN MAKES WAVES WITH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – ST. LOUIS

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Ellie Wehrmann was just a junior at Incarnate Word Academy high school when she first participated in the Swim Across America – St. Louis open water swim. In 2018, Ellie swam to support her best friend, Emily Schroeder, who had just lost her mom, Beth, to colon cancer. After that first swim, Swim Across America’s mission held a place in her heart. 

Unfortunately, the cause took a more personal meaning for Ellie when she lost her own mom to cancer in November of 2022.

“My whole world got flipped upside down on November 20th, 2022 when my mom, Dana Wehrmann, was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Three days later, on November 23rd she lost her battle,” shared Ellie.

Ellie’s mom’s diagnosis and sudden passing was understandably a shock to her family and through her grief, Ellie was able to find strength in giving hope to others who are fighting the same battle.

“As a kid, I kind of always thought that my parents were invincible. Yes, I saw cancer around me but I always thought ‘that could never happen to me’ or ‘not my parents,’” said Ellie.

Ellie, her mom, Dana, and her brother, Max, at the 2021 Swim Across America – St. Louis community swim.

“Cancer has deeply impacted my life, reshaping my perspective and priorities. Losing my mom to leukemia was a profound loss that left an everlasting mark on my family. Witnessing her strength and resilience throughout her battle inspired me and my brother, Max, to take action against this awful disease. We want to honor her memory and the memories of others we’ve lost by actively contributing to the fight against cancer.” 

Throughout the years, Ellie and Max’s team, Waves for Wehrmann, have raised more than $38,000. Proceeds from the Swim Across America – St. Louis community swim benefit cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center. Seeing the impact Swim Across America grants have on cancer research is what drives them to continue supporting the event.

Ellie with her dad at the 2023 SAA-St. Louis event.

“Raising money through Swim Across America is not just about swimming or volunteering; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. Every dollar raised brings us closer to better treatments, improved outcomes, and ultimately, a world without cancer,” shared Ellie.

“Swim Across America’s impact is undeniable, as it funds critical cancer research and support programs that directly benefit patients and families affected by cancer.”

Through Ellie’s grief and newfound perspectives, she remains dedicated to Swim Across America and bringing hope to families battling cancer.

“It’s about turning grief into action, channeling my pain into purpose, and striving to create a future where families no longer have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to this relentless disease.”

“For my family, Swim Across America is important because it represents hope, community, and the collective determination to fight against cancer, honoring the memory of loved ones lost and supporting those still battling this disease. Swim Across America is particularly important to my family because it has provided us a way to honor my mom, who was the assistant swim coach at CBC High School and Incarnate Word Academy, and an avid supporter of Swim Across America.”

To support Ellie and Waves for Wehrmann, click here.

Ellie and her brother, Max Wehrmann, at the 2023 SAA-St. Louis event.
Ellie’s mom encouraged her to involve her University of Kansas swim team in the Swim Across America – St. Louis event.

RICK OSTERBERG SHARES HIS REMARKABLE JOURNEY AND DEEPENED COMMITMENT TO SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – BOSTON 

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Rick Osterberg’s connection to Swim Across America was initiated similarly to that of so many other members of the Swim Across America community. It’s his journey over the last six years that sets him apart from many other participants.

Rick and his wife, Jessica Stokes, are lifelong swimmers, both swimming competitively in college and continuing to swim as USMS masters swimmers. They met during Masters workouts at Harvard University nearly 25 years ago. Their involvement with Swim Across America began about 15 years ago when they heard about the organization and knew many people involved in the Swim Across America – Boston community swim. 

Although he admits that Jessica is the more dedicated swimmer, Rick has played several roles over the years eventually leading to a role on the local leadership committee for Swim Across America – Boston. 

“I was an occasional walk-up volunteer for the Swim Across America – Nantasket swim whenever Jess was swimming it,” said Rick. 

“I got much more involved when we launched the Swim Across America – Boston Relay Challenge at Harvard in 2012, acting as the emcee, DJ, and scoreboard person.” 

Jessica Stokes and Rick Osterberg at the 2023 Swim Across America – Boston open water swim.

Rick remained a volunteer with Swim Across America – Boston for several years and took on an official role on the local committee in 2018. Jessica is also on the committee and leads their relationship with their beneficiaries, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and MassGeneral Children’s Cancer Center. 

Their involvement took on more purpose in 2018, when Rick received a diagnosis of stage three colon cancer. While this deepened their connection to the Swim Across America mission, Rick didn’t see anything particularly extraordinary about his treatment plan.

Rick Osterberg with Pam Ryan, Swim Across America Board Chair, and Janel Jorgensen McArdle, Olympian and Swim Across America COO at the 2018 Swim Across America – Boston pool swim.

“In 2018, my perspective and Jess’ perspective on Swim Across America changed when I was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer. Suddenly, I was a patient. In 2018, I felt a much deeper connection to the overall mission of SAA, but not necessarily to any particular SAA beneficiary,” said Rick.

Rick’s diagnosis was, in his words, rather traditional though he was moved by the amount of support within his SAA-Boston community that year.

“It was deeply humbling to attend the 2018 Boston pool relay, during chemotherapy, and see so many people who were swimming for me,” said Rick. 

“That event in 2018 remains one of the most moving experiences of my cancer journey. It was a huge boost to me, and a huge boost to Jess, during one of the harder phases of that treatment process. It also helped to turn a difficult experience into a hopeful direction through fundraising.”

Rick spent 2018 battling cancer with Jess at his side. He went through chemotherapy, chemo-radiation therapy, and finally surgery, and was in full remission by the end of the year. 

They both looked forward to the April 2019 Swim Across America – Boston pool relay with Rick resuming his usual responsibilities as emcee and DJ. He added another “role” to his list that day – cancer success story. 

Team Rick at the 2018 Swim Across America – Boston pool swim.

“I had beaten it, which was a great reason for many people to come and swim. It was an incredibly moving day and special because it ended up being our last pool relay before COVID,” said Rick.

The COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person events for 2020, which meant Rick and Jessica would miss out on the SAA-Boston event. Rick kept up with his routine scans and in June 2020, scans detected a small growth on a lymph node indicating his cancer had returned. Fortunately for Rick, FDA approval of a new immunotherapy drug had just been announced and it seemed like Rick was a great candidate for this new treatment.

Rick Osterberg and Jessica Stokes at the 2018 Swim across America – Boston pool swim. “I was in the middle of cycle 6 (of 8) of pretty hard chemotherapy. But we still found opportunities for joy, and the 2018 pool relay was one of those days of joy for both of us,” Rick shared.

“Suddenly, I was a candidate for Keytruda,” said Rick. “And the KEYNOTE-177 clinical trial results changed my cancer trajectory.”

“At this point, I’m now a Keytruda patient. I have virtually zero side-effects, and I have an incredibly high quality of life.”

Thanks to this new immunotherapy treatment, Rick’s cancer is virtually eliminated. He has avoided further surgical intervention that could carry significant risk of serious side effects or lower quality of life.

Rick’s commitment to Swim Across America was deepened when he realized the connection between the organization and the clinical trials that led to Keytruda’s FDA approval. The Swim Across America – Baltimore community swim benefits Johns Hopkins Medicine and grants from the 2015, 2016, and 2017 events funded groundbreaking research in immunotherapies, specifically PD-1 inhibitors. This research led to the FDA approval of Keytruda.

“After being part of an organization for so long, I was now a direct beneficiary of the research funded by SAA. I am one of a cohort of cancer patients who has experienced the necessary awfulness of chemotherapy, and the dramatically different journey on immunotherapy therapies,” shared Rick.

“I have been on my cancer journey for more than 6 years now, and in that short time, I have seen so many breakthroughs in treatment, but I also see so many cases where better options  are needed for friends whose treatment paths are much more difficult than mine has been.”

Rick feels incredibly fortunate to be where he is on his cancer journey, thanks in part to research funded by Swim Across America. He feels hopeful about the next big breakthrough that will give hope to more patients and their families.

When reflecting on the vast differences between how his cancer was treated, Rick underscores his remarkably high quality of life, and why he and Jessica continue to support Swim Across America.

Rick served as emcee for the 2022 Swim Across America – Boston open water swim.

“Due in large part to research funded by Swim Across America, my cancer journey right now is not much more than an appointment on the calendar. My quality of life in treatment is virtually 100%,” said Rick. 

“Perhaps more importantly our cancer journey (including Jess) is no big deal right now. Our quality of shared life is virtually 100%. That’s difficult to appreciate unless you’ve been through chemotherapy, or have been a close supporter of someone going through chemotherapy.”

Combined and over the years, Rick and Jessica have raised over $156,000 for Swim Across America.

If you are moved to support Rick and Jessica, click here.

FROM A MARATHON TO BEATING BREAST CANCER AND NOW MAKING WAVES WITH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – CAROLINA

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Keri Cleary watched family members go through the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. And at 36 years old, it was hard to believe that she would also hear those same words, “you have breast cancer.”

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer one month after running the Boston marathon, to the day. I was in the best shape of my life, and it was absolutely heart wrenching,” shared Keri.

Thankfully, Keri received swift treatment for her cancer and she is now cancer-free. Her connection to the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill (UNC) and her gratitude to her doctors and care team, are what inspired her to join the Swim Across America – Carolina community swim.  

“I feel so fortunate that because of the research and science, that I was quickly treated and cared for,” said Keri. 

“I am now cancer free and feel lucky enough that I am on a treatment plan to help reduce recurrence and keep me healthy for years to come.”

Sue Walsh, University of North Carolina Alum, SAA-Carolina committee member and cancer survivor with Keri Cleary

This is Keri’s third year supporting Swim Across America – Carolina and, in addition to swimming at the event, she has taken on a larger role with their local planning committee. Keri has raised over $7,000 to support UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Keri Cleary (center) with, from left to right, Aranza Vázquez Montaño (UNC Diver, Olympian) Rodolfo Vázquez Montaño (UNC Diver), Greer Pattison (UNC Swimmer), Elizabeth Sowards (UNC Swimmer) and Delaney Carlton (UNC Swimmer).

“I am really thankful to participate in Swim Across America for my third year in a row, this year, healthy.”

This year holds another special meaning for Keri, as she recently lost a family member to cancer.

“This year, I will be swimming in honor of my uncle, who passed away in December 2023 from a long battle with cancer.”

Keri has found community and hope with the Swim Across America community. And is thankful to see the impact in a direct way.

“Swim Across America means so much to me. The last two years I have seen how this wonderful event directly impacts those with cancer and those who have loved ones with cancer,” said Keri. 

“I am so thankful that we raise funds for cancer research.To me, it’s about getting a community together to do really great things to help support cancer research.”

The 2024 Swim Across America – Carolina community swim is dedicated in memory of Eric Montross.

Keri Cleary with North Carolina Aquatic Club (NCAC) Swimmers; Audrey Wolk, Connor Peck, Isabel Wolk & Mackenzie Collins
Keri Cleary with NCAC swim coach and friend, Kirsten Siebenga. 

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – TAMPA IN THE NEWS

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Read or watch local stories featuring the Swim Across America-Tampa community to learn about their impact. Learn more about the event and beneficiary, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, at swimacrossamerica.org/tampa.

SAASWIM.COM – Swim Across America blog

SWIMMERS MAKE WAVES TO FIGHT CANCER WITH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – TAMPA BAY

St. Pete Catalyst

Tampa Bay open water swim benefits cancer research

WTVT-TV (FOX, 13)

Swim Across America raising money for cancer research

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – FAIRFIELD COUNTY JUST BECAME PERSONAL FOR EVENT DIRECTOR, NANCY CARR

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For many years, Nancy Carr has supported friends and family who have been touched by cancer by joining them at the annual Swim Across America – Fairfield County swim. 

Nancy first served as a volunteer, then stepped up in 2019 to be co-event director, and now event director. 

Nancy is known for her big smile, boundless energy, genuine positive attitude, and ability to bring the community together. She has also been instrumental in bringing in additional support for the swim’s fundraising efforts.

This year’s swim has become extra meaningful and more personal for Nancy, who recently received her own cancer diagnosis.

“I was diagnosed in the last month with two completely unrelated G.I. (gastrointestinal) cancers. That is some sh*tty news,” said Nancy.

Nancy Carr, event director of Swim Across America – Fairfield County, now has a personal connection to our mission.

“When you think of me, I want you to picture G.I. Jane, the head-shaven badass who is stronger than most give her credit for, who will never give up. Ever. I don’t know if I’m going to lose my hair, but I do know I’m going to have to be strong. And I am so very lucky to have an army of supporters. I am not facing this alone. Together, we’re going to kick cancer’s a**!”

Nancy Carr and her son, Danny.

Nancy also noted that with her diagnosis she also got some good news. 

“I’m choosing to feel lucky in an unlucky situation. My doctors are using the word ‘cure’ when discussing my treatments. Cure is a powerful, motivating word. It’s why I joined Swim Across America years ago and why I continue to lead Swim Across America – Fairfield County.”

Nancy is known for saying, “You don’t have to be a swimmer to make an impact.” This holds true even more this year as she will be undergoing treatment for two types of gastrointestinal cancer and leading her “Team G.I. Nancy” while still heading up the swim on June 29.

“I hope that you will join me and the hundreds of other swimmers, boaters, kayakers, paddle boarders and land volunteers on June 29th who are diving in to make waves to fight cancer.”

To support Nancy and Team G.I. Nancy, click here.

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – NASHVILLE IN THE NEWS

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Read or watch local stories featuring the Swim Across America-Nashville community to learn about their impact. Learn more about the event and beneficiary, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, at swimacrossamerica.org/nashville.

SAASWIM.COM – Swim Across America blog

BRYAN STROINSKI HONORS TEAMMATE AND FRIEND THROUGH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – NASHVILLE

Nashville Parent

Swim Across America – Nashville

The Daily Beacon

Vols Swim Club looks forward to Swim Across America

Nashville.com

Swim Across America Nashville

WSMV-TV (NBC, 4)

Swim Across America makes waves in Nashville raising over $100,000 to fight cancer

WTVF-TV (CBS, 5) Newschannel 5

Swim Across America Nashville

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – FLORIDA KEYS IN THE NEWS

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Read or watch local stories featuring the Swim Across America-Florida Keys community to learn about their impact. Learn more about the event and beneficiary, Miami Cancer Institute, at swimacrossamerica.org/floridakeys.

SAASWIM.COM – Swim Across America blog

3RD ANNUAL SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – FLORIDA KEYS OPEN WATER SWIM TO MAKE WAVES TO FIGHT CANCER ON APRIL 20, 2024

Keys Life Magazine

MAKE WAVES TO FIGHT CANCER

Florida Weekly Key West Edition

Swim Across America Makes Waves in the Fight Against Cancer

Keys Weekly

ANNUAL SWIM IN ISLAMORADA SUPPORTS EARLY CANCER RESEARCH

Keys News

Swim to Benefit Miami Cancer Hospital

Keys’ edition of third annual Swim Across America set for Saturday at Founders Park

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA-FUNDED DOCTOR PRESENTS PROMISING RESULTS OF EARLY-TESTING METHOD FOR DETECTING PANCREATIC CANCER

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Swim Across America is proud to support promising research dedicated to cancer detection, prevention and treatments and has a proven track record of granting the brightest and boldest in the field. 

The latest success story comes from Dr. Ajay Goel, who received a grant for pancreatic detection research from Swim Across America in collaboration with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and the Lustgarten Foundation. 

Through a separate study at Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Dr. Goel shared promising results from an early-detection method for identifying two stages of pancreatic cancers. The liquid biopsy test was found to detect 97% of stage I and stage II pancreatic cancers in hundreds of volunteers.

“These data highlight the urgent, unmet clinical need to identify and develop diagnostic methods that could precisely detect pancreatic cancer at its earliest stages, when the disease is still confined to the pancreas and surgical resection is still an option,” said Ajay Goel, Ph.D., M.S., AGAF. 

Ajay Goel, Ph.D., M.S., AGAF

The researchers collected blood samples from each person and tested the expression of a set of small genes called microRNAs within the blood and encapsulated within exosomes found in the blood. Exosomes are small vesicles that are shed by both cancerous and healthy cells in the blood.Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths, behind colon and lung cancers, with the number of deaths increasing year after year. 

This remarkable statistic fuels the need for groundbreaking research like Dr. Goel’s. 

“When non-profits combine powers, humanity wins,” said Rob Butcher, CEO of Swim Across America.

“Swim Across America gives thanks to the incredible work of cutting-edge doctors, like Dr. Goel and his team, who are giving more families hope in the fight against cancer.”

Swim Across America is a national organization and offers open water and pool swims in 24 communities, from Boston Harbor to under the Golden Gate Bridge. Founded in 1987, Swim Across America has raised more than $100 million in the fight against cancer.

To learn more about Swim Across America and to register to swim, volunteer or donate, visit swimacrossamerica.org.

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA AND BLOCK CANCER PRESENT: EVENT DAY INSTAGRAM CONTEST

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NEW FOR 2024! Swim Across America and Block Cancer are proud to partner to offer an amazing giveaway to one lucky participant from each of our community charity swims in 2024.

The rules are simple: participants should post their best photos showing their SAA spirit from the event on Instagram and tag @saaswim and @block.cancer.

A winner will be selected from each community. Each winner will receive a Block Cancer Ted hoodie and Army Green beanie. Winners will be contacted via DM from @saaswim.

ABOUT BLOCK CANCER

In July 2021, Elizabeth Beisel’s heart broke into a million pieces when her father lost his battle to pancreatic cancer. His name was Ted Beisel. Elizabeth organized a fundraising swim for cancer research with Swim Across America in honor of her father’s brutal fight with the disease. Her successful 20km (12.5mi) swim to Block Island called Block Cancer raised historic funds and awareness for cancer research. Today, Block Cancer is a brand that has been sold worldwide, and something we know Ted would be extremely proud of.

At Block Cancer, we are proud to say we donate 90% of net profits to cancer research and clinical trials through the non-profit Swim Across America.

Learn more at swimacrossamerica.org/blockcancer.

7TH ANNUAL SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – CHARLESTON-KIAWAH OPEN WATER SWIM TO MAKE WAVES TO FIGHT CANCER ON JUNE 8

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Swimmers, Boaters, Volunteers Make Waves in the Fight Against Cancer

CHARLESTON, S.C., April 4, 2024 — Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah is #makingwaves to #fightcancer! Celebrating its 7th year, this year’s swim will be held Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island, South Carolina. There are three swim options available: a half-mile or a one-and-a-half mile open water option or a same day pool swim option. Participants can also join in virtually with “SAA My Way.” Boaters, kayakers, paddle boarders and land volunteers also participate in this inspirational event. To register as a swimmer or a volunteer visit swimacrossamerica.org/charleston.

Why does Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah swim to raise money in the fight against cancer? Cancer sadly touches everyone — whether it is a loved one or a friend, everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer. 

In 2024, For the first time ever, the United States is expected to surpass more than 2 million new cases of cancer and 611,720 cancer deaths. These staggering statistics offer compelling proof of the need to continue devising new approaches to treatment. In fact, there are more than 18 million Americans with a history of invasive cancer who are alive today, who were diagnosed many years ago or now have no current evidence of the disease, thanks to new treatments. Whether it is through swimming, volunteering, donating or cheering on loved ones and friends, Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah welcomes anyone and everyone who wants to be a part of the fight against cancer. 

Participants of the 2023 Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah community swim

Funds raised by Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah supports cancer research and clinical trials at the Ferreira Lab at Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. The Ferreira Lab is dedicated to designing and developing engineered immune cell therapies for autoimmune disease, cancer, and aging. To date, Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah has raised more than $400,000 to fight cancer since its first Charleston-Kiawah swim in 2018.

“The Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim is such an inspiring event,” said Jana Chanthabane, event director of the Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah open water swim. “The gathering of so many families and so many individuals who are honoring those who are special to them is incredible — whether they are currently battling it out, or survivors or have lost someone. To hear the stories and to learn about those whom cancer has touched and to experience that love is just palpable. The feeling of wanting to make a change and to do something for those who have experienced cancer is huge.”

“I remember being stuck with the feeling of needing to do SOMETHING to help my girls for the future, my family and other women that I love,” said Jana. 

Swim Across America is a national organization and offers open water and pool swims in 24 communities, from Boston Harbor to under the Golden Gate Bridge. Founded in 1987, Swim Across America has raised more than $100 million in the fight against cancer.

Jana Chanthabane, SAA-Charleston-Kiawah event director, and her daughter, Ella, at the 2023 community swim.

Funds raised by Swim Across America and its grants have helped support the research and clinical trials for FDA approved immunotherapy medicines, including Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. Swim Across America is also a grant funder of the successful clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering that was published in The New England Journal of Medicine and showed a 100 percent success rate in treating patients in a phase 2 clinical trial for advanced rectal cancer with dostarlimab. Swim Across America grants support more than 60 projects each year and there are ten named Swim Across America Labs at major institutions including: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, John Hopkins Medicine Baltimore, Rush University Medical Center Chicago, Baylor Scott & White Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center in Dallas, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York, Infusion Center at Nantucket Cottage Hospital, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and San Francisco, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, The Swim Across America Pediatric Research Lab at Columbia University Medical Center New York, and at Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell Medicine.

More than 150 Olympians support Swim Across America, including Michael Phelps, Craig Beardsley (who was inducted into the International Swimmer’s Hall of Fame in 2022), Donna De Varona, Rowdy Gaines, Janel Jorgensen McArdle, Bobby Hackett, Ryan Lochte, Glenn Mills, Cristina Teuscher and many more.

To learn more about Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah or to register to swim, volunteer or donate, visit swimacrossamerica.org/charleston.

Swim Across America, Inc. (SAA) raises money and awareness for cancer research, prevention and treatment through swimming-related events. With the help of volunteers, and Olympians, Swim Across America is an innovator and leader in giving hope to those fighting cancer. To learn more visit swimacrossamerica.org, Facebook @SwimAcrossAmerica, and Instagram and Twitter @SAASwim.