Swim Across America

Swim Across America was this weekend. Tommy and I have been swimming and/or volunteering with this awesome organization for the past 5 years. They hold swims all over the United States to raise money for local cancer research. The Boston swims raise money for the Perini Quality of Life Clinic at Dana Farber. This clinic, the first of its kind, follows survivors of childhood cancer after they complete their treatment (including my patients from Childrens Hospital Boston which is a joint program with Dana Farber). Most children diagnosed with cancer now survive, but there is a long list of potential late effects from the aggressive cancer treatment, including heart disease, kidney and liver problems, psychological/developmental issues and secondary cancers later in life. This follow up care is very often not covered by insurance and is out of the scope of most pediatricians and primary care physicians. The Perini Clinic is completely funded with philanthropic dollars, so Swim Across America really makes a difference in these children's lives.

There are 2 Boston swims: a 22-mile relay in the Boston Harbor on Friday and a 1 mile and 1/2 mile race at Nantasket Beach on Saturday morning. Tommy and I have both been fundraisers and done both swims in the past, but as we have become more involved with the organization, we have lately taken on bigger roles as volunteers.

This year, Tommy was an "angel swimmer" for both events. There are usually some new, nervous swimmers at both events. These swimmers are typically swimming in honor of a friend or family member that they have lost to cancer. Tommy volunteers to swim right next to these swimmers to encourage them and make them more comfortable in the open ocean. These swimmers are always so appreciate to have such a friendly face, positive coach, and strong swimmer right next to them in the water.

I volunteer on land, organizing much of the registration the morning of the Nantasket swim. This year, we had our newest volunteer - Mary Francis! She was a big help, as you can see below :)

Helping Daddy at registration

The swimmers at the start of the race at Nantasket Beach

They're off!

That water is cold!

First swimmers crossing the finish line

Tuckered out after a morning of volunteering

We love being a part of Swim Across America and look forward to the events every summer. If you would like more information about the organization, or are interested in local swims in your area, please let me know.