I believe cancer research is making a profound impact on the lives of people who find themselves with this unfortunate diagnosis.  My brother Lee died of a quick moving cancer in 1994, and previous to that I lost and a few aunts and a cherished godmother. Now, when I think of cancer though, I think of all the cancer survivors I know, too many to mention.  And this is in part due to the progress in treating this disease with chemo, radiation and immunotherapy.  Thank you research!!

I will be swimming this year to help raise money for the continued research in targeting cancer. 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. 

Matt Benoit was Spencers age and they swam against each other for many years growing up. When Matt’s mom was diagnosed with cancer he formed “Team Benoit” to raise money for cancer-support care.  Not only did his mom die of cancer that year, but Matt also was diagnosed and died of cancer the same year.

So far Team Benoit has raised $923,674 for local Seattle cancer research organizations such as Fred Hutch since 2016. Let’s help them get over the 1 million dollar mark!  If you are able, please support me by making a donation to make this possible!

The swim is on September 7th at 8am at Lake Sammamish State Park. I will be swimming .5 mile. Come and give us a cheer!

Thanks, Kathy Mennella

Thank you for helping me #MakeWavesToFightCancer.