Melissa Callaghan Rice was a coach, a teacher, a therapist, a mentor, and a friend to so many of us. Among the many things that she did, Melissa was the heart and soul of the Longfellow Stingrays for well over a decade. She helped to build the team from its fledgling years to 150 plus swimmers who continue to live her values of working hard, trying your best, treating everyone with kindness, and being a great sport no matter what.

In addition to instructing kids for the Stingrays, Melissa taught many kids with disabilities not just how to swim, but to love the water. She met families after work and found a way to do what no one else could - keep them safe so they could learn to find freedom and exercise in the water. She cried tears of joy with parents who had previously felt hopeless about their kids ever being able to swim and be safe around water.

Melissa was an inspiration to those who were lucky enough to know her.

When Melissa lost her long and courageous battle with cancer in June, 2022, she left behind her husband, Tom, and their two young children. Her time with us and, more importantly, with her family, was too short and we all wish there was something we could do about that.

We swim for Melissa to honor her legacy and to help find treatments and ultimately a cure to help other families just like hers.

Here is more information from Swim Across America:

In our lifetime, 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer. I joined the SAA community so that, together, we can change that. I am challenging myself by swimming and raising as much money to fight cancer as I can. Please support me by sponsoring my swim and making a gift. The money you give will go towards cancer research, prevention and treatment and will make an impact in the fight to find a cure.  Thank you for your generosity and may it lead to a cancer-free world!

You can make a credit card donation here, or send a check to 

Swim Across America

, c/o Kitty Tetreault, 30 Bullard Street, Walpole, MA 02081

Check should be made out to Swim Across America but please include a note mentioning my name as the swimmer you are supporting!