Swimmers Celebrate Life, Warn of Drownings

THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Published: September 16, 2012
By MICHAEL GOULDING

Over $100,000 Raised for the Awareness of Drowning Prevention

Swimmers were up before the heat, braving cool air and choppy surf at the Swim for Life Foundation’s 10th annual ocean plunge in Corona del Mar on Sunday morning.

More than 300 aquatics splashed into the water to raise awareness and money to combat childhood drowning.

Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-4, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

“Educating people about the dangers of drowning and helping protect their children is an inspiring cause,” said Casie Shore, who has participated in several of the non-competitive Swim for Life events.

Over the past 10 years, the Tustin-based Swim for Life Foundation has raised more than $100,000 to help raise awareness of childhood drowning, foundation President Johnny Johnson said.

A first timer to the event was Concordia University freshman Jessica Greenwald, who has had cerebral palsy since birth. Though an avid swimmer, she had never participated in an open-water event.

“This is the next step in my swimming career,” laughed Greenwald, who, for her efforts, suffered a jellyfish sting.