THE biennial MS Mega Swim made a big splash in Leeton Saturday with five registered teams that raised over $20,000 towards quality of life improvements for those who suffer from multiple sclerosis.
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The Mega Swim had 102 participants that work in teams that will have at least one swimmer constantly in the water around the clock.
While attendance was down from the 2015 Mega Swim, organizer Brian Munro was pleased to have the support from the community.
“We’ve done very well,” Mr Munro said.
“Typically Leeton punches above it’s weight.”
As of 7 pm Saturday night, $21,515 had been registered with the Mega Swim, not including donations brought in that evening at the door.
And when the final minutes ticked out on Sunday, Mr Munro was proud to announce that the final count had pushed the total past $26,000.
The funds that are raised will go to MS Australia, but have a significant local caveat.
Local MS branches encourage individuals who are battling MS to apply for ‘Go For Gold’ scholarships.
The scholarships can award up to $3,000 for a wide variety of things that improve quality of life for those affected by the disease.
The money can be used for improvements around the home and pay off-set the costs of medical treatments.
“A lot of it comes back to this area,” Mr Munro said of the donations towards MS Australia.
“The local branch is very active.”
“They support people and they let people know that this money is available.”
The MIA branch help ensure that those fighting MS know that they and their families are not alone.
The support and encouraging them to apply for the Go For Gold scholarships make a huge difference in their quality of life.
People found their inspiration from a variety of sources.
Some have loved ones battling MS, others have lost loved ones to the disease.
Many people simply felt compelled to lend a hand.
Participant Jacqui Herrmannn was one of many who felt the organizers deserved high praise for their efforts in keeping the event exciting throughout the entire 24-hour period.
“Every time there was a lull in the event, there would be an activity for the kids, an activity for the community to keep it exciting,” Mrs Herrmann said.
Mrs Herrmannn was also proud to see so many children participating in the event to support those fighting MS.
Mr Munro was proud to have Leeton’s support.
“Over the four ones that we’ve done we’ve raised around $130,000,” he said.
