The 13th annual ‘Swim to a Wish’ event recently concluded at Campus High School in Wichita, Kansas, uniting high school swimmers from across the state in a remarkable display of endurance and philanthropy.
This unique event challenges teams to complete a 100-mile relay, with the goal of raising funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to granting wishes to children with critical illnesses.
Each team, typically comprising five swimmers, undertakes the formidable task of swimming 100 miles in a continuous relay format. Each swimmer completes 20 miles over the weekend, swimming one mile at a time before rotating with teammates.
This grueling endeavor spans approximately 42 to 46 hours, with participants receiving minimal rest between their swimming segments.
A Tradition of Giving
Since its inception in 2013, ‘Swim to a Wish’ has grown exponentially in both participation and fundraising. The inaugural event raised over $5,700, and by 2024, the cumulative total surpassed $310,000.
The 2025 event set a fundraising goal of $25,000, with teams striving to contribute significantly to this target.
Participant Experiences
The swimmers’ dedication goes beyond the physical challenge; it’s deeply rooted in empathy and community spirit. Many participants express a profound connection to the cause, understanding the hardships faced by children battling critical illnesses.
Seth Sharon, a student-athlete from Campus High School and a three-year participant, shared his perspective:
“It’s unique. It’s great. It’s grueling, but it’s great to put in the work. Sometimes you just get into a flow state, and you just keep going. You feel like you can go forever… This is probably one of the biggest things I’ve been a part of.”
Nathan Luce, another Campus High swimmer, highlighted the event’s significance:
“It’s pretty fun to help raise money for those kids. It shows that you’re willing to do something that most people wouldn’t.”
Organizational Support
The success of ‘Swim to a Wish’ is bolstered by the unwavering support of coaches and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Kelly Kennedy, head coach at Campus High School, acknowledged the event’s rigorous nature:
“It’s grueling to swim 20 miles over a weekend, and you get to sleep about an hour and a half between each one. And so they’re pretty tired by the time it comes around Sunday.”
Cece Etter, donor relations manager at Make-A-Wish Missouri and Kansas, emphasized the event’s deeper significance
“It really shows a great parallel to what our wish kids and families go through day in and day out. This event is really grueling. It’s physically, mentally, and emotionally difficult, and our families experience that as well.”
Impact and Fundraising
All funds raised during the event directly support the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s mission to grant wishes to children with critical illnesses. Steve Crum, associated with ‘Swim to a Wish,’ highlighted the importance of the contributions:
“It grants wishes. All the money we give goes directly to granting wishes.”
As of the latest updates, the event has raised just over $21,000 toward its $25,000 goal. Donations continue to be accepted, reflecting the community’s ongoing commitment to making a difference.
The 13th annual ‘Swim to a Wish’ event exemplifies the power of community, resilience, and compassion.
Kansas high school swimmers, through their unwavering dedication, not only challenge their physical limits but also bring hope to children facing critical illnesses. Their efforts ensure that dreams are realized, one mile at a time.