I’m excited to be participating in the BENDIDGO 11.0 for the third time, raising money for the Ben Carlson Memorial & Scholarship Foundation.

On September 19, 2026, I’ll be paddling approximately 30 miles from Avalon, Catalina Island, to the Newport Beach Pier. As part of my preparation, I’m currently training and working toward completing three qualifying paddles of 15 miles each.

This year, my goal is to raise $2,000, with every dollar going directly to the Ben Carlson Foundation. The Foundation was created in honor of Newport Beach Lifeguard Ben Carlson, whose final rescue on July 6, 2014, ultimately claimed his life. Since then, the Foundation has had a lasting impact by supporting scholarships, water safety education, and programs that strengthen communities both locally and around the world.

What makes this event so special to me goes beyond the physical challenge. I’ve completed the paddle twice, and both times I experienced something I never expected. As I approached the Newport Beach Pier and saw my family waiting on the pier and the entire community gathered on the beach, I became overwhelmed with emotion. I’m not typically an emotional person, but both years I found myself fighting back tears as I crossed the finish line.

I never had the chance to know Ben personally, but through this event I’ve come to understand the impact of his legacy and what it means to so many people. The sense of community, support, and purpose surrounding this paddle is unlike anything I’ve ever been a part of. It’s one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I’m incredibly grateful to be participating again this year.

I’m asking for your help in reaching my fundraising goal and supporting this incredible cause.

How you can help:

• Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me closer to my $2,000 goal.
• Share: Help spread the word by sharing my fundraising page with friends, family, and your social networks.

Thank you for your support and encouragement. It truly means a lot to me, and together we can help continue the incredible work of the Ben Carlson Memorial & Scholarship Foundation.