Tigers Swim Against Cancer

TBA

WHAT: Hi! My name is Meghan Schmidt, and I am a senior at J. R. Tucker High School. This year, I am organizing a swim-a-thon in support of Swim Across America, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting cancer.

Everyone knows someone who has, at some point, been diagnosed with cancer. I am no exception; I’ve had friends, teammates, teachers, and family members struggle with or pass from cancer. My so-called “turning point” was last spring, when my paternal grandfather was diagnosed with ampullary cancer, a form so rare that it accounts for only 0.2% of gastrointestinal cancers. Shortly after receiving his diagnosis, our family friend told us about Swim Across America and the work that they do. I instantly knew that I wanted to become involved and to help support the organization. I realized that while I couldn’t cure my grandfather and fight his disease for him, I could do more to help. I decided that I was going to take action and host a swim-a-thon, with the goal of raising money to help fund cancer research, clinical trials, and patient support programs. More importantly, I wanted to help others learn about Swim Across America and help others find ways to get involved in the fight against cancer.

That's where my high school team came in.

After working on a proposal, I presented my (admittedly ambitious) plan to my team. I know that I am inherently biased, but Tucker has one of, if not the best, most supportive swim teams out there. To anyone who knows Tucker and its incredible community, it comes as no surprise that when I told my coaches and my teammates about my idea, they instantly agreed. Together, our team is working to honor, support, and advocate for our loved ones while encouraging others to do the same. We ask that you help to spread news about our mission and contribute if able. On behalf of our team and loved ones fighting cancer, thank you for your support!

Join us for a practice as well as some fun relays and races!

*This event is open to all Henrico County Public School swim teams*

WHERE: 100 Nova Way, Richmond, VA 23238

WHEN: TBA

HOW TO JOIN: Click the register button in the middle of this page and get your own fundraising page to send out to your friends and family.

All swimmers and volunteers must complete the waiver found here and bring to the event check-in. If you are under 18, please bring the waiver signed by a parent or guardian.

FUNDRAISING: We encourage swimmers to each raise at least $100. Many will raise more but if everyone raises $100, our swim could raise thousands to support cancer research, prevention and treatment.

FUNDRAISING INCENTIVES: Every swimmer who participates will receive a Swim Across America cap and tattoos! Raise the amounts below and receive great SAA items for your efforts!

• $50 - SAA T-Shirt.
• $100 - SAA Sunglasses + $50 fundraising incentive.
• $300 - SAA Towel + $100 fundraising incentives.
• $1,000 - If you raise $1,000 you are acknowledged as a WaveMaker and receive WaveMaker benefits.

Individual WaveMaker Status: $1,000 fundraising minimum:

WaveMakers go above and beyond by raising at least $1,000 for SAA. Anyone can achieve WaveMaker status - swimmers, volunteers or SAA My Way participants. WaveMakers get special recognition and an exclusive WaveMaker gift. You can learn more about WaveMaker Status here.

QUESTIONS? Feel free to email Meghan.