I turned 70 in April, and this is the twenty-first year for Women Swimmin' for Hospicare. This is my 16th year participating in this fundraising event, and I had set a goal to keep doing the swim until I was 70. Well, here I am, but despite embarking on a new age decade, I started training, and swimming still feels good to me. I CAN DO IT! SO...I may keep doing it beyond 70...we will see!

I will use this event and experience to maintain my strength, health, and well-being and to remind myself and others of how Hospicare has been a comfort and support to myself, my family, and my friends. I've been blessed with good health and so much support in the past, that I am looking forward to continuing to accomplish this goal. Hospicare was established here in Ithaca 41 years ago. To continue their good work, every Hospicare needs the funds to provide emotional, medical, and spiritual support to patients and their families at any stage of a life-limiting illness or to anyone grieving a loss. Women Swimmin’ for Hospicare raises funds and provides information and education about the agency and its mission in a manner that is inclusive, fun, and consistent with Hospicare’s respect for all people.Thanks to the Corporate Sponsors every dollar raised goes directly to patient care

Each year my list of people to think about and honor as I swim across the lake gets longer, so it's a good thing that the distance across Cayuga Lake remains the same and I move slower. I am always filled with gratitude, respect, and appreciation for how Hospicare has cared for my family and friends, whether through dealing with an illness, grieving a loss, or celebrating and cherishing life after a loss.  I'm blessed with comforting memories, and I am so appreciative of your support in honoring and remembering our loved ones, as well as promoting and sustaining Hospicare’s mission to serve us all with their numerous resources.