A marathon swimming event in Wollongong at the weekend has so far raised more than $38,000 to support people living with multiple sclerosis.
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The MS Mega Swim is a 24-hour event in which each participating team must have a swimmer in the water at all times.
Organiser Bill Wright, from Figtree Lions Club, said the swimmers collectively swam about 750 kilometres this year, with the winning team, the Werri Point Swimmers, racking up 79.6 kilometres.
About 198 swimmers from 12 teams participated in this year's event, held at the University of Wollongong's UniActive pool.
"Overall, it was a very successful event," Mr Wright said.
The money raised will go towards financial assistance programs and services to help people living with multiple sclerosis.
It will also fund MS Go for Gold scholarships, which are awarded to people with multiple sclerosis to help them achieve their dream.
Figtree Lions Club has now hosted 10 MS Mega Swims, with COVID-19 resulting in the postponement of last year's event.
The event was instigated by Anita Graham, who approached the Lions Club with the idea of doing something because of a close family member who had multiple sclerosis.
Mr Wright said there were a number of reasons the event continued to be a success, including the challenge it posed to swimmers.
It was also fun, he said, and about doing good.
"It's a worthy cause, and [the participants] may have family or know someone who suffers from MS," Mr Wright said.
He thanked everyone who took the time and effort to support the event, especially in the wet conditions Sunday brought.
Donations to the cause can be made online, here.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
