Swimmers of all ages and abilities can take to the bayside waters of Islamorada’s Founders Park for a noncompetitive event geared to raise critical funds for cancer research.
Swim Across America’s Florida Keys Open Water Swim will help make waves against cancer on April 12 at the Islamorada park’s bayside beach. Entering its fourth year, the event annually raises roughly $100,000 thanks to participants who pledge to come up with important dollars. Proceeds this year support research into lymphoma treatments at Baptist Health South Florida’s Miami Cancer Institute.
“Everybody knows someone who’s been impacted by cancer whether it be a family member or friend,” said event organizer Glenn Latham, who overcame a four-year battle with cancer in 2011. “I went into therapy, and with support from my family and church, I miraculously recovered and have been in remission.”
Glenn and his wife, Susan, said they learned in 2020 there was no Swim Across America event south of Tampa Bay. With Glenn involved in Relay for Life during his time in California, the Lathams decided it was time to bring a swim event to the Keys to support the fight against cancer.
“What better way to fundraise than to swim in the beautiful bayside waters,” Glenn said.
Swimmers wishing to sign up can embark on either a half-mile, 1-mile or 2-mile swim. Kids are also welcome to enjoy some splash mats as their parents go for a swim.
“It’s noncompetitive, so if people want to wear fins and a mask, they can certainly do that,” Glenn said.
Swim starts from the beach will be staggered for each distance. Safety personnel will be out on the water to ensure everyone is enjoying the swim safely. There will also be angel swimmers for participants who’d like to swim next to someone who’s a little more seasoned.
Each participating swimmer pledges to raise $500, while those under 18 pledge to raise $200 or more. Glenn said he suggests swimmers set up teams.
“It’s a fun way to get other family members and friends together for a good cause,” he said.
Over the past three years, nearly $300,000 was raised to support cancer research at the Baptist Health South Florida’s Miami Cancer Institute.This year, they’re hoping to raise another $100,000. Glenn said he’s swimming this year for his mother and sister, who lost their cancer battles.
“The more we raise, the more research they can do,” Glenn said.
Each swimmer will receive a beach towel and a T-shirt. Refreshments will also be available to participating swimmers. Several Olympic swimmers will be on hand to cheer on participants. A mermaid by the name of Anna will also be in attendance.
More information is at swimacrossamerica.org/floridakeys.
