Sue Walsh is indisputably the most outstanding swimmer in UNC history.  Her accomplishments are far too many to list, but to name a few she is a 1980 Olympian, an 11-time NCAA champion, American record holder and multiple masters swimming world record holder.  She worked for the UNC Education Foundation for 30 years and has left a double legacy in Chapel Hill.  Sue is also the mother of Sarah, Shelby and Sean and grandmother to five grandsons!

Sue is facing the relentless challenge of cancer with the same determination that fueled her swimming achievements.  In 2019, Sue was initially diagnosed with colon cancer.  Surgery was performed and she was cleared of all cancer.  The cancer returned in 2022 as stage IV colon cancer.  Since then, Sue has been undergoing aggressive treatment and is fighting for her life.  Supporting Sue in her fight against cancer is personal for many of us.  Sue has touched our lives in so many different ways and continues to.  Even while facing life's greatest trials, our friend Sue continues to uplift others with unwavering resolve.  She recently spoke on behalf of SAA at the Olympic Trials in June.  Sue's story moved the many national team alumni swimmers and masters swimmers where she asked us all to get involved in SAA for not just herself, but those who have passed and those who will fight cancer in the future.

On September 28, Team REDBIRD will come together to display community spirit and determination by swimming at Sue's alma mater to raise funds for cancer research.  Swim Across America turns the pool into a symbol of hope, and every stroke represents a commitment to advancing research and finding a cure.  Team REDBIRD is honored to swim for Sue Walsh and her fight!!  

Let's make waves that go beyond the water.  Please consider a donation in honor of our true champion, Sue Walsh.