Why I swim
I’m swimming this March because too many young lives are lost to suicide. Every lap I swim will help make sure there’s a safe place for young people to turn when life feels overwhelming.
I'm swimming to save lives
Hi, I’m Marcus Rivera, performer, educator, and passionate advocate for mental health. This March, I’m swimming in Laps for Life to raise $1,000 for suicide prevention and support young Australians struggling with mental health challenges.
This cause is deeply personal to me. Over the years, I have lost several friends to suicide, each one a devastating reminder of how isolating mental health struggles can be, and how urgent it is that we do more. As someone who’s experienced the pain of loss, I want to be part of the solution, helping to break the stigma, spark conversations, and ensure that support is always within reach.
Swimming is not just a physical challenge for me; it’s a tribute to friends I’ve lost and a commitment to those still fighting. Each lap is a way to honour their memory and to show that no one should ever feel alone.
Why I Swim
- To remember friends who are no longer with us
- To raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention
- To remind others that support is out there and that asking for help is a sign of strength
If you’re able, please donate to my Laps for Life campaign. Every dollar goes towards life-saving support and resources for young people in need. Together, we can help make sure no one swims these waters alone.
Thank you for your support, legends.
My Swim Progress
Completed
2.60km (52 laps)
My goal
20km
My Impact
So far I’ve raised $466 to provided 116.53 young people experiencing mental health difficulties with vital support.
Top Donation
$135
Jo Tungcab
Shoutout to Jo Tungcab – my biggest supporter so far with a $135 donation to help young people get the mental health support they need through ReachOut!
Funds Raised
Note: displays max previous 3 years of fundraising only
Thank you to my
supporters
$135.04
Jo Tungcab
$106.12
Michelle Baltazar
This is a great initiative! Xx
$56.24
John Tantoco
$56.24
Rachel Bernabe
Wonderful, Kuya Marcus! Cheering for you! 🏊
$56.24
Code.Sydney
Good luck, Marcus
$56.24
Jayne A
Fabulous cause
Thank you, Marcus, for advocating for mental health and continuing to support our youth and everyone, as this is also very close to my heart.