Loretta’s Gills is a team tribute to the life and legacy of Loretta Blazic Kelley who passed in 2016 after a courageous fight against lung cancer.

The colors of the team logo, turquoise and pearl represent lung cancer awareness. The 'Gills' in our team name represent lungs and Loretta's 'girls' who swim - her daughters and granddaughter who founded the team named in her memory.

Loretta was a caring and dedicated nurse so it is only natural for her 'Gills' to carry on her legacy of helping others. Loretta's Gills are back for our seventh season with Swim Across America and our fourth year with SAA Chicago. 

Loretta's Gills are swimming to raise money for Rush University Medical Center and fund the early-stage research and clinical trials desperately needed to advance the standard of care for cancer treatment. We are also swimming to raise awareness and advocate for lung cancer screening and early detection in high-risk individuals. We are swimming for LUNGevity!

You can make a credit card donation by clicking on the DONATE NOW link to make a team donation, or by clicking on one of the members of our team to donate on their personal page.

Donations by check should be made out to Swim Across America and mailed to: Swim Across America - Chicago, PO Box 223, Riverside, IL 60546. Please be sure to include a note with your check mentioning our team or the swimmer you are supporting.

Loretta’s Gills thank you for your generous support and encouragement.
Together we are Making Waves to Fight Cancer!