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 Saturday, July 27, I will once again be participating in Swim Across America's annual Long Island Sound 5k open water swim to raise funds for early stage cancer research and clinical trials. As you may know, this is an event that I have participated in since I was 13 years old and one that I hold close to my heart as a lifelong swimmer and as one of too many whose lives have been touched by cancer.

I will be swimming alongside some of my oldest and closest friends from the sport as part of Team Payne, and I am asking for your support! If you are able, I would really appreciate a donation on my behalf.

Thank you for helping me #MakeWavesToFightCancer.