On Sunday, October 6, Swim Across America – Charlotte hosted its eighth annual charity swim at Camp Thunderbird, uniting swimmers of all ages to make a significant impact in the fight against cancer. This year, the event raised $270,000 to exclusively benefit cancer research at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute (LCI) and Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital. 

Dr. Michael Grunwald, chief of the leukemia division at LCI, and Dr. Lawrence Druhan, research group director at LCI, remain dedicated supporters of the event, serving as captains for Team Levine Cancer Institute. They were joined by seven-year-old Margaret Anne, a two-time cancer survivor, who swam to honor those impacted by cancer. 

Pictured: Patty Waldron, chair of SAA – Charlotte event director, with seven-year-old Margaret Anne, who helped kick off this year’s swim.

While the event normally features an open swim along the shores of Lake Wylie, the event was transitioned to Camp Thunderbird’s outdoor pool due to flooding from Hurricane Helene. In a heartwarming display of community spirit, participants and volunteers donated supplies to impacted patients at Levine Cancer Institute in Rutherford County, NC. 

Why Shannon Swims 

At 37, Shannon Carney received life-changing news: she had breast cancer. For over two decades, this diagnosis has profoundly shaped her journey. 

“It changes a person to their core,” Shannon reflects, considering the battles she has faced alongside her loved ones. “Cancer has taken so much from me, including my mother to pancreatic cancer and my father to prostate cancer.” 

Today, Shannon celebrates 21 years of being cancer-free and her second year supporting Swim Across America – Charlotte. She joined her good friend and event director, Patty Waldron, on October 6, participating with “MSA Team Out of My Box.” 

This year, Shannon’s participation in SAA-Charlotte carried extra significance. She swam in memory of her dear friend, Rob DiFrank, who passed away last year. Shannon’s commitment to raising awareness and funds for cancer research exemplifies the spirit of resilience and community that defines Swim Across America. 

Shannon Carney (left image), a breast cancer survivor, has participated in SAA – Charlotte’s swim event for the past two years. She’s joined by Dr. Ruben Mesa, president of Atrium Health Levine Cancer, and his wife, Kris; along with Levine Cancer Institute Drs. Lawrence Druhan, Michael Grunwald, and Brittany Ragon.

With the support of Shannon, Margaret Anne, Team LCI, and many dedicated swimmers, this year’s event helped Swim Across America celebrate a significant milestone—surpassing $1 million in total funds donated to Atrium Health’s cancer programs. The generosity displayed will directly support essential research, prevention, and treatment programs that are instrumental in saving lives. To learn more about the organization’s local impact, visit https://SwimAcrossAmerica.org/Charlotte.

(All photos courtesy of Aguallo Studios)