Seven steadfast teams have raised more than $11,000 during a 24-hour multiple-sclerosis ‘mega swim’ at Casey RACE in Cranbourne East on July 13-14.
Up to 90 swimmers swam well-over 467 kilometres, which is the equivalent of swimming from Cranbourne to Melbourne and back about nine times.
Now in its eighth year at Casey, the MS 24 Hour Mega Swim was started by Australian Paralympian, Carol Cooke, who lives with MS and had a vision of bringing people together to raise funds for multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis is the most common neurological disease in young adults and diagnosis typically occurs between 30 years of age, although onset of symptoms may be earlier.Billie Hansen, of Berwick, and a team-member of Kings of the Pool, was the highest individual fundraiser at the event, impressively raising $1,134.70. The 13-year-old also swam for an incredible 11-hours.
“I wanted to help people living with MS. It was great to know that I could raise $1,100,” he said.
Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon was blown away by the turnout at the event.
“I think that this event really is a testament to the people who live here. We have a great community here at Casey and more broadly around the region. These people have been swimming for 24-hours which is a phenomenal effort,” she said.
The event was made possible with the support of the City of Casey, Casey RACE Recreation and Aquatic Centre, Kiwanis International, Physioworks Health Group, Funky Trunks and Funkita and to APEX 40 who helped raise $800 at the barbeque outside Casey RACE.
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