The Swimpsons

Laps for life - that’s a wrap!

I was a bit disappointed after not making the 10 km goal for the month. I realise that the course was more important than the deadline so I have headed to the pool anyway. It seemed insurmountable to swim 56 laps in one session given them my best over the month has been 30 or so laps. I pushed on and completed it by thinking of milestone years of my life used that to motivate me to keep going. 33 Was the year I went to uni, 39 was the year my son Leo was born. I swam six laps without rest for each of the 6 years of his life up until 45. I powered through that 46 to approved to myself that I had the strength to remain here on earth beyond my 46th birthday in a week. By this point I realised I was only 10 laps away from the goal and had to keep going. I never thought I would’ve had the strength to do this today. I became very emotional at the end of the swim thinking about all of the people I care about and who care about me. It’s been an amazing experience on the whole, and I hope whatever contribution I made gives someone the hope and support they need.

Swimpsons

Emma and I hit the pool today with much more enthusiasm. The tumble turns were rolling strong, our lane mates were very motivating, and the staff at the pool were very jovial and helpful! The only obstructions encountered were some 20 somethings making out in the lane towards the end of the session, but hey, it’s a public pool after all. I’m pretty sure we’re going to be slaying the goal, but it’s still early days. So far the lungs full of air have been lifting our mood and putting a spring in our step. Highly recommend, yay for mental heath! 🤗

Valley pool

Love getting down to the valley pool at the worst of times but today was lovely around 2pm before the rush began. Nice clear water, beautiful temperature in and out. Was a bit rusty with the swimming but each lap I felt my lungs open up and was able to swim more consistently without gasping by the end of each lap. I’m starting off slow and building up throughout the month so I don’t over cook it too soon so only 12 laps today. Keen get back in the pool tomorrow when I’ll have more time!

Swimming to raise awareness and money for youth mental health in a chaotic world where growing up is arguably more complicated than ever.

Suicide remains the leading cause of death for young people in Australia.

More than 1 in 3 are experiencing mental health difficulties, yet over a million are not getting the support they need.

ReachOut provides anonymous, free and 100% online services so young people can find a safe place to connect, share and get help when life feels overwhelming.

We're taking part in Laps for Life to make sure these vital services are always there. Please donate to our fundraiser and help more young people get the support they deserve.