Autism charity to host 24-hour swimathon
Members of the Autism Heroes Swim Group pictured at the final session of their eight-week swim programme at Graiguecullen Swimming Pool, with their dedicated swim instructors Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
AUTISM Heroes, a charity that gives support to children with autism and their families, has organised a 24-hour swimming event to help fund special classes for its members. Over 100 people have so far signed up for the epic aquatic event, which is taking place in Graiguecullen Swimming Pool this Saturday, 13 September.
Special guests are two Olympic swimmers, Danielle Hill and Erin Riordan, who have both pledged to swim, with Erin finishing off the event at 5pm on the Sunday.
24 teams of people are taking part, with plenty of the teams featuring family members of the children who participate in the swimming classes.
Louise Moran, the founder of Autism Heroes, explained that the eight-week swimming programme for the children costs over €5,000 because the lessons must be one-on-one.
“These children couldn’t possibly go into a general swimming class, so it ends up being really expensive to run the programme. The classes have to be heavily subsidised for the families,” explained Louise.
Louis has set a goal of €20,000 as a target for the fundraiser and, thanks to the generosity of the public, they’re on track to hit that magic number. Each team has their own leader board so to donate go to www.idonate.ie/event/AutismHeroes24hrSwimathon.
For further information, contact Louise on 085 2249819.
