The waters run even deeper this year for the Taber Viper Swim Club with its Terry Fox Swim-a-Thon, which goes today at the Taber Aquafun Centre.
The fight against cancer is at pretty much everyone’s doorstep and for the Taber Viper Swim Club, it has afflicted one of its own in the pool.
Ten-year-old Brynn Lund started her chemotherapy treatments Monday for cancer. Her competitive heart unfettered, she competed in the Vipers’ home meet at the end of June and mere days later, she was admitted to Calgary hospital to undergo testing.
Last year, the swim club was able to raise just over $2,200 and this year if the club is able to raise another $2,000, Jody Ginther has agreed once again to shave his head.
“This is such a good cause and the kids had so much fun last year. Jody got his head shaved last year and the kids were amazed. So many people are affected by cancer and every bit of money helps for research,” said Denise Cook, president of the Taber Viper Swim Club. “A couple of weeks ago we were at a meet in Blairmore and all of the Vipers Swimming swam with a heart with Brynn's name on their arm. We all think of Brynn every day.”
If the club is able to raise $2,500 this year, the club’s top swimmer, Alex Senneker, will also volunteer to have his head shaved. Senneker has also been helping coach for a couple days a week in May and June for the club.
On top of the Swim-A-Thon, Taber Viper Swim Club is also planning on doing a bottle drive.
“We are in the process of arranging a bottle drive to help raise some money for the Lunds. If anyone is interested and would like to donate their bottles at the depot, just mention that to the attendant, and they will set aside the money for us to give to the Lunds,” said Cook.
“We will be doing a bottle drive on Monday, Aug. 9, so we hope to get to as many houses as we can.”
Those interested in supporting the swim-a-thon or bottle drive can call Cook at 403-223-4248.