Make a Splash at Winthrop's Annual Swim-a-Thon

Long Islanders are encouraged to take part in the Winthrop-University Hospital’s 14th Annual Swim-a-Thon on Sunday, March 15, from 7-11:30 a.m. at Hofstra University’s Swim Center.

Open to swimmers of all ages, the event raises funds for the hospital’s Child Life Program. In this initiative, certified specialists utilize play and education to improve children’s understanding of medical procedures, teach relaxation techniques to help young patients cope with illness or surgery, and provide emotional support for the entire family.

Since its inception, the event has raised $300,000 to benefit the Child Life Program. The program was first conceptualized by Ron Marino, DO, the associate chairman of pediatrics at Winthrop, in 2002.

Schools are invited to come in groups, and community members are invited to swim or support a swimmer through a sponsorship pledge. In addition, students can earn community service hours by participating either as swimmers or as volunteers.

Each year, the swim-a-thon is enhanced by community support. Participants will enjoy swim coaching by Rob McKeown from South Shore Tri Coach; massage therapy by Licensed Massage Therapist Denise Cooke, RN; live music by the Mineola High School Jazz Ensemble and Central Beat rock band; crafts provided by Cathy Grossfeld of All About Kids; yoga by Donna Dragani, and more. Saf-T-Swim, Winthrop’s affiliate in swim training, raising funds and safety will also join the event poolside. Each swimmer receives a towel and bathing cap with registration.

The registration fee for adults is $20; $10 for children ages four to 17 and students with a valid school ID. For more information, to sponsor a swimmer, or to register or volunteer, visit www.winthrop.org/events; email ddasilva@winthrop.org or call (516) 663-4423.

Image: Participants at Winthrop-University Hospital’s 2014 Swim-a-Thon enjoyed a fun-filled morning of swimming while raising funds for a worthy cause. Photo Credit: Anne Lucas

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