My aunt and godmother, Didi Ryan, had a smile that would light up a room and an energy that drew people around her. Her charisma and carefree attitude always made people smile, but it was her selflessness and deep concern for others that made her such a special person. She always put others first and had a way of making you feel like the most important person in any room when she talked to you. Didi lost her year long battle with cancer in November, 1997, at the age of 36.

Everyone who knew Didi still misses her dearly. Every year since her passing, I have participated in Swim Across America in her memory. The swim gives me time to reflect on everything Didi did for me and for others in her short time with us.

Sadly, through family and friends, everyone has had to face the terrible disease that is cancer. I ask for your help in raising money to help prevent and treat cancer today so that in the future, family and friends like Didi won't be taken from us before their time. Please support me by sponsoring my swim and making a gift. Help make an impact in the fight to find a cure.