Every day this year, rain or shine, Lenny Warren has committed to a daily dip to honour his dad and raise vital funds for cancer research and support.
The dedicated 11-year-old, shares that his initial goal was to raise $500 by swimming every day. After surpassing this on the first day, he has now raised nearly $6000.
"I chose to do it because I love everything about the ocean so much. I thought it would be good to turn it into a fundraiser to help other people."
Lenny hasn't missed a single day, even when this meant braving the freezing winter water or a nighttime swim.
"There was one time when there was a storm with thunder and lightning whilst I was swimming. I have had a few nights when it was really late and I had forgotten to swim earlier in the day, so I had to jump in the ocean whilst mum and dad shone the car headlights on the water so I could see!" he shares.
Lenny's motivation comes from his dad who was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2022 at 40 years of age.
"It was a big shock, as my dad is the fittest and healthiest person I know. He runs and swims all the time, and surfs, and eats really healthy food. He doesn't drink any alcohol or smoke. Dad had treatment, and he is better now."
"I thought that if I fundraise some money, it might help the scientists to find a cure for cancer so nobody else has to go through it," he shares.
Despite the challenges, Lenny has enjoyed his year-long fundraiser and knowing that he is making a difference.
It makes me feel good checking my fundraising tally and reading all the nice messages, and knowing that I'm helping other people.
Lenny plans to finish his year with a celebratory dip surrounded by friends on December 31, 2024.
If you are considering fundraising, Lenny encourages you to "set yourself a goal and stick to it."
Start your own fundraiser
- Find out how you can get involved and fundraise for us.
- Visit com.au to start your own community fundraiser.
