Founded in 1987, Swim Across America has hosted charity swims with one goal: to raise money for innovative cancer research that would lead to breakthrough treatments and therapies.  Since then, Swim Across America has raised over $100M to fund the next generation of pioneers in oncology and cancer-support care. 

On September 7th, I will be swimming the Rhode Island Open Water 1 Mile Swim in memory of my mom, Judy Burns, who passed away at the age of 57, after her courageous battle with melanoma cancer.  I was 16 when she had her first cancer curative surgery, which afforded me 9 more cherished years of togetherness before it metastasized to her brain. And at the age of 25, at her service, I was unable to even piece together words for her eulogy. 

I have recently started swimming regularly as a way to exercise my body and mind. This (and future fundraising swims) is my mom's eulogy.  I believe in Swim Across America's mission and want to help give more families hope. There have been significant advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of melanoma since my mom's passing, and, most importantly, the overall survival rates for melanoma have significantly improved.  If you are able, please support me by making a donation to help me reach my fundraising goal. 

Thank you for helping me #MakeWavesToFightCancer.