16-Year-Old Marathon Swimmer Maya Merhige Successfully Swims the English Channel and Raises More than $100,000 to Fight Cancer

Posted on July 12, 2024July 30, 2024 Posted in #DefeatCancer, #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, Fundraising, Junior Advisory Board, Making Waves With Hope, News, san francisco, Top FundraisersTagged cancer research, fundraising, media, News, swim across america, swimmingLeave a comment

Berkeley, California, Resident Is Now One of the Youngest in History to Complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming and Makes Waves to Fund Cancer Research through Swim Across America

Maya Merhige has done it again! The 16-year-old marathon swimmer has just successfully conquered the English Channel (20.5 miles or 33 km), making her one of the youngest swimmers in history to achieve the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming, which includes the English Channel, Catalina Channel and Manhattan 20 Bridges swims. Maya swam the English Channel in just 11 hours and 39 minutes on July 13, 2024. She undertook the iconic English Channel swim and her other marathon swims to make waves to fight cancer and raise funds for the nonprofit Swim Across America, which funds innovative cancer treatments and clinical trials.

*Maya Merhige, a 16-year-old marathon swimmer from San Francisco, successfully completed the English Channel swim earning her the prestigious Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming.*

Maya earned her stripes toward the Triple Crown and broke swimming records in the past by completing the Catalina Channel and Manhattan 20 Bridges swims. In September 2021, at 14 years old, Maya broke the record as the youngest woman in history to successfully swim the 20-mile Catalina Channel, finishing in 10 hours and 48 minutes. In 2023, at 15 years old, Maya was one of the youngest swimmers to successfully complete the 28.5-mile 20 Bridges swim around Manhattan Island, which took her 8 hours and 43 minutes.

“We are beyond proud of Maya and her determination and grit to swim these swims,” said Maya’s mom Liz Tung. “We never imagined Maya, who was just nine years old when she swam her first Swim Across America – San Francisco open water swim, would find such a passion for open water swimming and take her swimming so far. Earning the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming at just 16 years old is just incredible! We are thrilled for her!”

Maya also holds the world record as the youngest woman to swim the 21-mile length, 12-mile width, and 10.8-mile Vikingsholm courses of Lake Tahoe, earning her the Tahoe Triple Crown. She also became the youngest swimmer in the world to successfully swim the grueling 26-mile Kaiwi Molokai Channel, between the Hawaiian Islands of Molokai and Oahu, which she completed in 27 hrs and 33 mins. She also holds a record for the longest duration and joined the ranks of the “24-Hour Club” with the 108th longest non-stop open water swim in history.

*Maya Merhige after completing the Catalina Channel swim in September 2021.*

“I’m so grateful and excited to have successfully swum the English Channel and completed the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming,” said Maya. “Swimming the English Channel this year was a big goal of mine for many reasons. This year marks my ninth year participating with Swim Across America. With the generous support of family, friends and others, I have been able to raise an incredible $100,000 to fight cancer, which has gone directly to the Swim Across America San Francisco beneficiary UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. This past year, I’ve also endured some health battles of my own, and my personal experience has made me even more inspired and passionate about supporting cancer research and treatments at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. I’m also going to be a senior in high school this fall and next year will look very different for me as I will leave home to start college. So this was the year to swim the English Channel!”

*Maya before her record-breaking and grueling 26-mile Kaiwi Molokai Channel swim in January 2023.*

Maya’s own medical challenges began in March 2023, when after suffering a ski crash, a benign tumor on her pancreas was discovered. Suffering from chronic pain, surgeries and hospitalizations since, she has a newfound empathy for pediatric cancer patients who endure endless procedures and appointments. Despite these challenges, Maya remains undeterred.

“Due to the pain I was experiencing earlier this year, I didn’t get to train as much as I would have liked leading up to the English Channel swim,” noted Maya. “These past six weeks, after being in the hospital for 10 nights in May, I really had to kick my training into gear. There were points while I was swimming the Channel where I wanted to give up. I swam through schools of jellyfish and had a lot of stomach pain, but I kept thinking that this doesn’t compare to what kids with cancer face. That helped me find the strength to keep going.”

Continues Maya, “The English Channel was cold and the current was really strong. Whenever I stopped swimming to feed, I could feel myself getting pulled backwards. I knew I had to keep swimming hard, no matter how exhausted I was, in order to get past the tidal current and land on the French shore at Cap Gris Nez. But I made it!” After reaching shore and climbing the rocks to dry land, Maya had one of her favorite meals – Chow Mein – waiting for her back on the boat.

“I’m extremely grateful for my family and friends who have supported me in this endeavor. My dad Chris Merhige and friend Kelly Gentry, who is also an accomplished English Channel swimmer, were on the boat (the Sea Leopard) as my crew during the swim, along with the boat captain Stuart Gleeson, co-pilot Sean Marsh, and observer Jon Miell. My mom Liz Tung, sister Lucy, and extended family were back in England cheering me on. A big thank you to all of my friends and supporters who followed my journey and sent words of encouragement that were relayed to me while swimming. I’m exhausted, but very, very happy!”

Maya’s swimming journey began at just nine years old with the Swim Across America – San Francisco open water swim when she joined Team Susan Survives!, for her dear family friend and three-time cancer survivor Susan Helmrich. The San Francisco swim raises funds for pediatric cancer research, supporting the work of Dr. Julie Saba and Dr. Robert Goldsby at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, which has been a leader in pediatric cancer research and treatment for decades, significantly increasing cure rates and improving the future for thousands of patients worldwide. UCSF’s advances in treating leukemia and other cancers have contributed to the overall five-year survival rate for childhood cancer rising to nearly 85% today, up from 10% in the 1970s. Despite this progress, childhood cancer is still a challenge and can have lasting effects on patients and their families. UCSF continues to study these long-term consequences.

*Maya Merhige and SAA-San Francisco co-event director, Jackie NeJaime at the 2023 community swim.*

The partnership between Swim Across America and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital is essential for advancing cancer research and care.

Maya is also serving her second year as president of the Swim Across America – San Francisco Junior Advisory Board and her goal has been to raise $35,000 this year with the English Channel swim and the San Francisco swim, which will bring the total she has been able to raise to more than $125,000 for Swim Across America to support cancer research for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals.

“I’d especially like to thank Dr. Julie Saba, director of the Swim Across America Research Lab at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, for her continued support throughout my own health challenges. For that, I am forever grateful and inspired to raise even more for Swim Across America and UCSF through my swimming,” noted Maya.

Maya also plans to participate in the Swim Across America – San Francisco open water swim on October 5, 2024, swimming with her team Chasing Channels, made up of other Swim Across America – San Francisco Junior Advisory Board members and Bay Area youth. One tradition Maya has is to write the names of friends and family members battling cancer on her swim cap. “I am honored to carry the names of friends and family members affected by cancer on my cap,” she added. “I’m going to keep swimming to raise awareness and funds for fighting cancer until we have a cure.”

To learn more about Maya swimming the English Channel and to make a donation to Swim Across America, visit swimacrossamerica.org/maya.

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. 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 in 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 Kate Douglass, Michael Phelps, Craig Beardsley, Elizabeth Beisel, Missy Franklin, Ryan Held, Gretchen Walsh, Donna de Varona, Rowdy Gaines, Janel Jorgensen McArdle, Bobby Hackett, Ryan Lochte, Glenn Mills, Cristina Teuscher and many more.

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.

JULIA BROOKSHIRE MAKES WAVES TO FIGHT CANCER IN A UNIQUE WAY TO CELEBRATE REMISSION

Posted on July 2, 2024October 7, 2024 Posted in #DefeatCancer, #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, beneficiaries, charleston-kiawah, charlotte, Fundraising, News, partnerships, SAA My Way, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedTagged cancer, cancer research, media, News, swim across america1 Comment

Julia Brookshire’s journey with Swim Across America is full of signs and signals. The events leading up to her newest adventure are like an invisible string that ties her to the Swim Across America mission. It’s an adventure that prompted a career change and a cross-continental swim.

“I first found out about Swim Across America because I saw a backpack with the logo laying on the pool deck. I had just finished a swim, saw the logo, and Googled ‘Swim Across America’ when I got home,” said Julia.

When she realized Swim Across America combined swimming and fighting cancer, she was immediately drawn in. Julia’s father passed away in 2005 from glioblastoma and Julia’s neighbor had recently been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). She knew she had to be involved, so she gathered up her neighborhood friends and formed a team for the 2019 Swim Across America – Charlotte community swim in her neighbor’s honor.

Fast forward to 2021 and Julia wanted to swim again. This time, she chose the Swim Across America – Tampa event because she had friends in Florida who would come with her to the event.

*Julia Brookshire, center, with teammates at the 2019 Swim Across America – Charlotte open water swim.*

“Before the start of the swim, I met Vicki Bunke, whose daughter Grace lost her battle to osteosarcoma. Vicki swam in 14 Swim Across America events to honor Grace. As a mother, I immediately felt a connection,” said Julia.

*Julia Brookshire and Rob Butcher, Swim Across Ameria CEO, at the 2021 SAA-Tampa community swim.*

When Julia finished the course at SAA-Tampa, she met Rob Butcher, Swim Across America chief executive officer. They shared a quick exchange and realized they both lived in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was a sign.

“When we got back to Charlotte, Rob reached out to me, and we met for breakfast. He asked me, ‘What do you do and what are you passionate about?’” said Julia.

Julia said, “I’m a pharmaceutical sales rep and my passion is water safety.” At the time, Julia was working as a pharmaceutical sales rep in the rare-disease space and certifying lifeguards for Mecklenburg County Aquatics. Julia holds several water safety certifications, including training as a Big Wave Risk Assessment Groups water rescue technician, and as a surf responder for the ocean course. After her discussion with Rob Butcher, Julia knew this was the start of something special.

FAMILIAR FACES IN ALL PLACES

Julia had been swimming since she was two years old. She was taught to swim “the old school way” as she puts it. She swam competitively through high school and continued swimming, though in a less competitive way, in college and still swims to this day.

“My mother was terrified of the water. She vowed to make sure her kids knew how to swim and how to be safe around water. So at two years old, she put my brothers and me into the pool and sort of forced us to learn to swim!” said Julia.

Julia’s involvement with Swim Across America quickly grew and her passion for water safety led her to higher-level volunteer positions with Swim Across America. Some of her roles included supervising some of the community events as a national safety liaison. At her first event where she worked with the safety team, she saw a familiar face.

“I looked over and there was Vicki Bunke! First in Tampa and now at Swim Across America – Charleston-Kiawah. Another sign.”

Julia continued volunteering as a national safety liaison for the next two years.

SWIMMING WITH MY THOUGHTS

It wasn’t until February 2023 when Julia’s connection with Swim Across America became even more important. Julia was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and began a year-long treatment program that included a combination of chemotherapy antineoplastic agent infusions and oral immunotherapy.

“I didn’t tell people that I had cancer. I didn’t want my sons to be constantly reminded I wasn’t well. I wanted to focus on my remission, not my CLL diagnosis. And I didn’t want people to treat me differently,” shared Julia.

Throughout her treatments, Julia swam daily at her local YMCA. Swimming was a form of therapy and helped her maintain a positive outlook. It was so important to her that she scheduled her treatments in the late mornings so she could swim every day at the YMCA at 6 a.m.

“Swimming was where I could be with my thoughts. I could pray, I could meditate, I didn’t have to think about cancer. It kept me centered and grounded. In fact, I had just gotten out of the pool when I got the ‘you have cancer’ call from my doctor. If I had been anywhere else, I would not have been able to handle that call,” said Julia.

Another sign.

*Julia Brookshire excitedly rang “the bell” at Levine Cancer Center in March 2024.*

Swimming also kept her focused on remission. Thankfully, Julia was given the news that she was in “deep remission” in February 2024. She anxiously went for her last routine scan and visit with Dr. Ryan Jacobs at Levine Cancer Center.

“On March 7, I rang that bell signifying completion of my treatment and I couldn’t have been happier,” said Julia.

“Then I kept thinking, ‘OK, what’s next, what do I do now?’”

What came next was something bigger than Julia had imagined and surprised those closest to her. Before she could tell people about her next adventure, she needed to tell them she was in remission – from a cancer they didn’t know she had.

MAKING WAVES WITH A CROSS-CONTINENTAL SWIM

Julia’s big plan was realized when Swim Across America announced a new partnership with SwimTrek, the world’s leading provider of open water swimming trips. It was a sign.

“I started by telling people that I was doing something crazy, swimming from one continent to another, and I was raising money for Swim Across America. When they asked why, I told them it was to celebrate my remission of CLL,” said Julia.

“The amount of love, kindness, and support I received was unbelievable. Well, not completely unbelievable, because I know I have an incredible support system. But it was overwhelming and I’m so grateful.”

So what IS next? In February 2024, Julia signed up as a Swim Across America SAA My Way virtual participant. This allows her to design and complete her own challenge and raise funds for Swim Across America.

In July 2024, she made an even bigger move and left her career in pharmaceutical sales to officially join Swim Across America as a full-time national safety director!

Now onto Julia’s next adventure and My Way fundraiser: Thanks to the partnership between Swim Across America and SwimTrek, Julia was awarded an entry into the Hellespont and Dardanelles Swim, known as the world’s oldest swim. In August 2024, Julia will travel to Turkey and swim the Hellespont and Dardanelles swim on August 30.

The course is a cross-continental swim from Europe to Asia in Turkey and is through one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The shipping lane is closed during the race, so swimmers must adhere to a strict course time. The course is 4.5 kilometers and must be completed in 90 minutes.

“It’s intimidating and I’m training for it! I am a good swimmer and am building up my stamina. I am thankful that I’m feeling healthy and strong,” shared Julia.

“I think back to that backpack on the pool deck and look to where it’s led me. I am working with an organization that is making an incredible impact in communities across the country. I swam my way through cancer treatment. And now I get to swim one of the oldest swimming courses in the world and raise money for cancer research while I do it. There were signs all over the place.”

Julia will have some company and moral support in the water as she makes her cross-continental trek. Julia will be joined by Janel Jorgensen McArdle, a former Olympic swimmer and Swim Across America chief operating officer.

“Julia and I have been close friends for a while and I’m so happy she has been given this opportunity to celebrate her year-long journey,” Janel shared. “This is so special and I’m happy to swim alongside her. Now I need to start training!” Janel joked.

Julia hopes to make waves to fight cancer by raising $60,000 for Swim Across America – and is so close to meeting her goal! If you are moved to support her swim, visit swimacrossamerica.org/jb.

Find media highlights from Julia’s adventure here.

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR, ELENI BOWDEN, HONORS LOVED ONES THROUGH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – BALTIMORE

Posted on July 2, 2024October 16, 2024 Posted in #DefeatCancer, #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, baltimore, Making Waves With Hope, Pool Swims, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedTagged cancer, cancer research, media, News, swim across america2 Comments

Eleni Bowden watched many family members go through their own battles with cancer. Then at 41 years old, she faced her own battle, and emerged a survivor thanks to early detection and treatment.

“My godfather and my dad’s best friend, Sam Tsakiris, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June 2018. He passed away just 5 weeks later; our family was devastated,” shared Eleni.

Shortly after her godfather’s passing, Eleni spotted a flier at Meadowbrook Swim Club in Baltimore, Maryland, promoting the upcoming Swim Across America – Baltimore open water and pool swims. Eleni quickly registered for a pool swim as a way to honor her godfather.

“Although it had been quite some time since I had participated in organized swimming, I felt compelled to take part in this event that raised money for cancer research, a cause so close to my heart.”

It had been years since Eleni swam in a pool, so she joined SAA-Baltimore’s “learn to swim” program to ensure she was prepared for the pool swim.

“I was on a swim team from ages 8 to 12, so it was more of a ‘re-learn to swim’ for me,” Eleni jokes.

*Eleni Bowden, a breast cancer survivor, during an SAA-Baltimore learn-to-swim session.*

Since 2018, Eleni has participated in four pool swims and has raised more than $7,100. This year, she has taken the lead on organizing her own pool swim at L’Hirondelle Club in Towson, Maryland to support the SAA-Baltimore community. The pool swim raised more than $9,000. Eleni’s involvement with Swim Across America continues to be a source of support while her family faced difficult times.

“In May 2023, my father, Bill Popomaronis, lost his battle with prostate cancer after fighting for over 13 years.”

*Eleni Bowden, center, and her family have supported Swim Across America – Baltimore since 2018.*

Watching her dad approach each medical treatment with faith, courage and perseverance inspired her own battle to come.

In January 2024, Eleni noticed a dimple with a lump behind it on the side of her right breast. Though she wasn’t due for a mammogram until July, she immediately called her physician who referred her for imaging.

“I started with mammograms at 36 due to our strong family history. And in early February 2024, I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer.” said Eleni.

“At that time, I also completed genetic testing and learned I was Chek-2+, the same as my father and sister. This gene is linked to an increased risk of breast, prostate and colon cancer and identifying it can be helpful to other patients seeking early detection and diagnosis,” said Eleni.

After a biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma, Eleni was scheduled for a bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore in late March.

Thankfully, Eleni’s surgery went well and she was home after a one-night stay in the hospital. She credits her incredible support team for helping her through this fight.

“It takes a village! My husband has been with me every step of the way, and I am so thankful for my family and friends who helped us during my recovery.”

A couple weeks after her surgery, Eleni was moved to tears when she received the best news possible after her initial diagnosis. Pathology results showed clear margins and no lymph node involvement. In her words, it was the “best-case scenario for something you’d hope never to face.”

*Eleni Bowden, center, at the Bolton Hill Swim Club SAA-Baltimore pool swim with Marina Caminis (left) & Katie Bacon (right).*

Though recurrence is possible, Eleni is focused on staying positive and remains grateful to her family, friends and medical care team for their support and swift care. Under her doctor’s direction, Eleni will continue oral and injectable chemotherapy treatment for several years.

“I am doing my best to stay positive and focus on my two wonderful children, who have been the absolute best distraction!” said Eleni.

*Eleni’s “Why I Swim” flag shows the loved ones she honors through her involvement with SAA-Baltimore.*

“I have been using the word ‘grateful’ when I share my experience. I am grateful for contacting my doctor when I did, as this could have been a very different outcome had I waited until my next scheduled mammogram in July. I’m grateful for my village and those who have supported me throughout this journey. And I’m grateful for Swim Across America who is helping advance cancer research and early detection techniques through community swim events.”

If you are moved to support Eleni, click here.

THE 24TH ANNUAL SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – NASSAU/SUFFOLK OPEN WATER SWIM WILL MAKE WAVES TO FIGHT CANCER ON AUGUST 3

Posted on June 20, 2024August 19, 2024 Posted in #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, beneficiaries, event directors, Events, Making Waves With Hope, Nassau/Suffolk - Sound to Cove, Pool Swims, Top FundraisersTagged cancer, cancer research, media, News, swim across america1 Comment

On Saturday, August 3, hundreds of swimmers, volunteers, and supporters will come together to Make Waves to Fight Cancer at the 24th annual Swim Across America – Nassau/Suffolk open water swim.

The community swim will be held at Pryibil Beach in Glen Cove, NY and offers multiple distance options for swimmers, as well as land and water volunteer roles. Swimmers of all ages can Make Waves to Fight Cancer by joining the Family Fun Swim.

“The Swim Across America – Nassau/Suffolk community swims are a great opportunity for our friends, neighbors, and family to come together and make a real impact in the fight against cancer. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved over the years,” said Swim Across America – Nassau/Suffolk event director and Swim Across America board member, Kevin Shine.

*Dr. Jedd Wolchok, of Weill Cornell Cancer Center, spoke at the 2023 SAA-Nassau/Suffolk open water swim.*

Since its inception, the SAA-Nassau/Suffolk open water and pool swims have raised over $12 million for their beneficiaries. Proceeds from the 2024 events benefit cancer research, clinical trials, and cancer care programs at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institute at Northwell Health, MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital, and SHARE Cancer Support.

“We were grateful to extend our support to Weill Cornell Medicine in 2023 and support the Swim Across Research Laboratory at Weill Cornell Cancer Center, led by Dr. Taha Merghoub,” noted Kevin.

Grants from the SAA-Nassau/Suffolk community swims have had an incredible impact on cancer research and breakthroughs. A current rectal cancer clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center led by Dr. Luis Diaz and Dr. Andrea Cercek saw the first 100% remission rate in the history of cancer.

Additionally, SAA-Nassau-Suffolk is proud to host the two top fundraising teams across all Swim Across America national events: Team Stacey and Team Carolyn. In 2023, the two teams raised over $560,000 combined.

Team Stacey, named in honor of Stacey Leondis, has raised over $2.5 million since their first event in 2008.

“We’ve grown from a team of 13 to over 85 team members, ranging in age from 6 months to 99 years old! This truly reflects Stacey’s ability to always connect and bring people together for a cause,” said Ellen Leondis, Stacey’s mother and captain of the team.

*Team Stacey, Swim Across America’s top fundraising team of 2023, at the 2023 SAA-Nassau/Suffolk open water swim.*

Team Carolyn has raised over $500,000 since their first event in 2022. Steven Chestler, the team’s captain, joined Swim Across America to honor his wife, Carolyn Jaenisch.

*Team Carolyn, Swim Across America’s number two top fundraising team, at the 2023 SAA-Nassau/Suffolk open water swim.*

“We started the team in honor of my wife, Carolyn Jaenisch, who was a marathon swimmer and beloved member of our community. The best way to honor her memory is to continue fighting this terrible disease while doing something she loved: swimming,” said Steven.

Swim Across America – Nassau-Suffolk open water swim offers a Family Fun Swim, ½-mile, 1-mile, 2-mile, 5K, and 10K course options for swimmers. Land and water volunteers are welcome to register to support the event. The community is also invited to join one of the many pool swims in New York. Find more info on the event page: swimacrossamerica.org/ns.

DUNCAN RICHARDSON FINDS HOPE IN HIS CANCER JOURNEY THROUGH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – NANTUCKET SUPPORT

Posted on June 7, 2024July 30, 2024 Posted in #DefeatCancer, #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, beneficiaries, boston, Making Waves With Hope, Messages of Hope, nantucket, Top Fundraisers, Uncategorized, wave makerTagged cancer, cancer research, media, News, swim across america1 Comment

Swim Across America’s guiding principle is “money raised local, stays local.” It is a model that the organization takes great pride in and helps to deepen participants’ connection to the mission.

This connection is especially evident in communities like Swim Across America – Nantucket, which supports Nantucket Cottage Hospital and Palliative and Supportive Care of Nantucket (PASCON) on the island and Mass General Cancer Center in Boston, MA. The community grants are applied to local hospitals and patient care programs to benefit patients and families within their small, tight-knit island.

Duncan Richardson, a Newton, MA native, and his family have been seasonal visitors to Nantucket for over 36 years which makes it feel like their second home. Duncan joined the SAA – Nantucket community in 2021, and this year, he is swimming in the event for the first time!

Duncan always admired the organization and its mission which became more personal when he was diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer in 2022. Little did he know how vital the organization’s mission would become to his own life.

*Duncan Richardson shared his “Why I Swim” story at the 2023 Swim Across America – Nantucket community event.*

“I am a bit of a medical miracle,” said Duncan. “Two years ago, after rapidly losing over 30 pounds, I was diagnosed with Stage IV esophageal cancer — a cancer with a very poor prognosis.”

Duncan received swift care and a treatment plan from his medical team, which included the immunotherapy drug Opdivo (nivolumab) and biweekly chemotherapy infusions.

*Duncan and his care team at Nantucket Cottage Hospital where he received treatment for stage four esophageal cancer.*

Swim Across America community swims granted funds to doctors and researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center who implemented clinical trials for nivolumab. The promising results from those trials led to the FDA-approval of Opdivo.

“Without Opdivo — and Swim Across America funding — I wouldn’t be here today. I’m incredibly humbled and grateful to anyone who had a part in bringing this research to fruition,” said Duncan.

And the fact that Duncan was able to receive local, easily accessible medical care had been invaluable.

“It is hard to overstate in my cancer journey how important to my wellbeing and that of my family the Nantucket Cottage Hospital professionals have been.” Duncan affirms.

“Their compassionate and quality care gives me and hundreds of other residents and visitors the most important thing you can have in battling cancer — HOPE!”

Duncan is excited for this year’s SAA-Nantucket event, where he will swim the half-mile course with his team, Strokes for Hope. His dedication to Swim Across America is seen with each stroke of his swim.

“That’s why we swim and raise the money for cancer research, the Nantucket Cottage Hospital infusion center and for PASCON. All our strokes are Strokes for Hope!”

If you are moved to support Duncan, click here.

“Without Opdivo — and Swim Across America funding — I wouldn’t be here today. I’m incredibly humbled and grateful to anyone who had a part in bringing this research to fruition,” said Duncan.

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

Posted on May 23, 2024October 16, 2024 Posted in #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, Carolina, event directors, Making Waves With Hope, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedTagged cancer, cancer research, media, News, swim across america1 Comment

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

Posted on April 26, 2024July 2, 2024 Posted in #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, event directors, Fairfield County, Making Waves With Hope, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedTagged cancer, cancer research, media, News, swim across americaLeave a comment

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

Posted on April 15, 2024April 17, 2024 Posted in #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, beneficiaries, Making Waves With Hope, News, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedLeave a comment

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.

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.”

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

CANCER SURVIVOR, KARA WOLTER, CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF MAKING WAVES WITH SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – MOTOR CITY MILE

Posted on March 28, 2024July 15, 2024 Posted in #DefeatCancer, #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, beneficiaries, Grant, Motor City Mile, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedTagged cancer, fundraising, media, News, swim across america3 Comments

Kara Wolter was 26 when she was diagnosed with metastatic osteosarcoma. The bone cancer found in her left knee had spread to her lungs. Her treatment plan included six different chemotherapies and multiple surgeries, including six lung wedge recession surgeries and amputation of her left leg above the knee. She was given a high recurrence rate and a 15 to 20% chance to live another five years.

Six years later, Kara is now 33 and “thriving as a cancer survivor!” She has had no evidence of disease for three years.

How did Kara learn about Swim Across America?

“During a check up with my oncologist at Rogel University Cancer Center, I saw a flyer for the upcoming Swim Across America – Motor City Mile event. Proceeds from the event go towards cancer research right there at Rogel,” said Kara.

“I used to swim as a child, and now I coach for the same team I swam with, so it was an easy decision to sign up for SAA – Motor City Mile.”

*Kara Wolter spoke at the 2023 Swim Across America – Motor City Mile community swim.*

Her connection to the Swim Across America mission and local beneficiary made it an easy decision, like many other Swim Across America participants.

This will be Kara’s fifth year swimming at SAA – Motor City Mile, and she hopes to hit yet another personal milestone.

“I am so close to raising more than $10,000! Five years, $10,000 raised… I know we are making an incredible impact in our community,” shared Kara.

*Kara Wolter grew up swimming and is now a coach for the same team she swam with.*

Since 2019, Swim Across America – Motor City Mile has raised over $500,000. In 2023, Dr. Kyoung Eun Lee, one of the grant recipients, received an $1.4M grant from NCI to study the role of low oxygen supply in pancreatic cancer

On July 12, Kara, her team, the Sassy Swimmers, and hundreds of swimmers, volunteers, and supporters hope to make an even greater impact in their community.

“Swim Across America is so important to me. I survived a terrible cancer that I probably should not have survived and I want to make a difference in the future,” said Kara.

To support Kara and her team, click here.

SWIM ACROSS AMERICA – SAN FRANCISCO IN THE NEWS

Posted on October 2, 2023 Posted in #MakingWavesToFightCancer, #SwimAcrossAmerica, News, san francisco, Top Fundraisers, UncategorizedTagged cancer, media, News, swim across americaLeave a comment

Read or watch local stories featuring the Swim Across America-San Francisco community to learn about their impact. Learn more about the event and beneficiary, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals (Oakland and San Francisco), at swimacrossamerica.org/sanfrancisco.

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FAMILIAR FACES IN ALL PLACES

SWIMMING WITH MY THOUGHTS

MAKING WAVES WITH A CROSS-CONTINENTAL SWIM

Swim Across America blog – saaswim.com

KCBS radio/Audacy.com

KTVU (FOX, 2)

San Francisco Chronicle