I’m swimming in honor of Mr. Jon (Jon Bryant), and in memory of Mrs. Baj (Deb Bajohr) and Little Bo “Peep”

Mr. Jon is a stranger to none and loved by all. He could be found either at a concert (my concert buddy), helping mow lawns, shoveling driveways, or hosting a BBQ. He was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) in February 2023 and has been battling strong ever since, but he’s not alone as we tackle this fight together.

Mrs. Baj was the cheerleader in my family’s and others’ lives. She could be seen either supporting her boys and their track and field teams alongside the tracks, gardening in her backyard, or throwing bangers. Mrs. Baj lost her battle with breast cancer and has been at peace since September 2021. Now, we’re her cheerleaders, continuing her fight against cancer!

Little Bo “Peep” was the friendliest and fluffiest guinea pig, never afraid to say hello or accept rubs. She loved posing for the camera, bell peppers and chin rubs (which she would give kisses in return as a thank you). She was full of joy, having a “pep in step” attitude and brought much happiness to the lives she was in. She fought hard, but passed to ovarian cancer in March 2024. “Peep” our splash as we swim for a cure in her memory!

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, 11600 N. Community House Rd., Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28277. Checks should be made out to Swim Across America but please include a note mentioning our team name ‘“Peep” Our Splash” or my name “Margaret Hillyer” as the swimmer you are supporting!