Hello Supporters of My Swim Across Cayuga Lake for Hospicare,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share some updates on my preparations for the big swim and let you know about an exciting opportunity to make an even greater impact.

First, the good news – and this is important: an anonymous donor, along with several of the highest fundraisers for the Women Swimmin' event, has generously agreed to match all contributions made this morning before noon. That’s TODAY, Thursday, August 25th. If you’ve been considering a donation or wondering if your contribution will make a difference, TODAY IS THE DAY. Donate before noon, and your donation will have DOUBLE the impact.

In more good news, I’m thrilled to share that my cast was removed on Tuesday! However, my doctor has advised that I refrain from swimming for at least two weeks. With the swim scheduled for Saturday, August 10th, this leaves me with only 16 days to recover, making it uncertain whether I will be able to participate this year.

Regardless of my participation, Hospicare still urgently needs your support. This annual swim raises about 20% of Hospicare's operating budget, which is crucial for providing care to the individuals and families they serve.

Your donation, big or small, is vital. Please consider donating before noon today to make the most of this matching opportunity.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Warm regards,

Gail

My initial message -- 

For years, many of you have cheered me on as I swim across Cayuga Lake, supporting Hospicare and its incredible mission. I am deeply grateful for your ongoing support. This year marks what would be my 13th swim, safely guided by caring boaters in their kayaks, with my husband Alan keeping a watchful eye from the main safety boat captained by Al Fulkerson.

However, this year is different. A fall in May left me with a broken wrist, surgery, and a bright purple cast. It's now July, and I'm adapting to life as a left-handed gardener and one-handed cook.

The cast comes off next week, and I'm uncertain how my hand, arm, and shoulder will handle the 1.2-mile swim. But I remind myself that this event is not just about me, even though I cherish the beauty of the lake and the spirit of community that this event embodies. It’s truly heartwarming.

Our goal is to raise funds for Hospicare, which provides essential support to individuals and families during their end-of-life journey, ensuring they do so with dignity and compassion. Every dollar raised from this swim directly benefits this wonderful cause.

Whether I can swim this year or not is still unknown. But one thing is certain: Hospicare needs our financial support. So, I’m asking for your generous donations, no matter the amount.

You can easily donate online using the big blue button on the right or, if you prefer, send a check to Hospicare at 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. Please remember to write my name in the memo section of your check.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support.

Warm regards,

Gail