Mega swim for a mega-worthy cause

Two years ago Sunraysia woman Anyse Austrums was faced with some confronting news: her cousin had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. All of a sudden she was exposed to an illness she had previously known little about. At the time of this diagnosis in 2018, Anyse came across local fundraiser 24 Hour Mega Swim for Multiple Sclerosis and immediately wanted to get involved. Danielle Wilcock spoke with Anyse to discuss this life-changing event and the fundraiser she has become increasingly passionate about. Picture: Krystal Torney

FOR two years, Anyse Austrums has made it her mission to become more involved and help raise vital funds for multiple sclerosis (MS) research.

Before her cousin’s diagnosis, she admits, she was quite unaware of the condition and what it meant for those living with it each and every day.

“After my cousin Jill’s diagnosis it really hit home. It made me think ‘What does this mean?’ “ Anyse explains.

“It wasn’t really until I was personally affected that I felt the need to get involved.

“When you’re faced with something like that it really opens your eyes.”

Shortly after Jill’s diagnosis in 2018, Anyse discovered the fundraiser on social media.

“I think I came across a post on Facebook about the Mega Swim for Multiple Sclerosis,” Anyse says.

“I immediately said to myself ‘I have to get involved’.”

She is overwhelmingly excited about participating in this year’s event and is passionate about the need for increased awareness of the illness.

“After taking part in 2018 I’ve been counting down the days till this year’s fundraiser.

“Apart from the fact it was so much fun, it’s for an amazing cause.

 “I feel that MS needs more exposure. I would really love for more fundraising to be done and for the 24 Hour Mega Swim to become an annual event.”

Tomorrow, Saturday January 18, Mildura Waves will host its fifth 24 Hour Mega Swim for Multiple Sclerosis.

This year, there are eight teams registered and 62 participants.

Anyse’s team, Wet and Wild, have joined forces with event organiser Mark Slade’s TeamWaves

“Mark, who organises the event, is really invested in it. He has MS himself and takes great pride in the event,” Anyse says.

“We have joined our teams and are both really excited for it this time around.

“We joke that we’re a fun team, not a swim team.”

The fundraiser – first held in Mildura in 2005 – has so far raised more than $55,000 for multiple sclerosis research.

Participants hope to add handsomely to this figure, with fundraising for this year having already topped $3000.

 “It really helps to increases exposure and raise vital money for MS research,” Anyse says.

 “A lot of the money raised goes into the research needed to slow down the deterioration of someone with MS.

“Mark is really invested in it.”

When asked to explain the event and what it entails for participants, Anyse says, “It’s like Relay for Life, but in the pool”.

Teams must have a team member in the pool at all times, and they’re required to relay for the entire 24-hour duration.

To keep participants fuelled and spectators refreshed there will be a coffee van on site along with a Mallee Food truck.

Various entertainers will also be in attendance, including a local choir.

“The evening stint is quite tough as people go home and it gets a lot quieter. You lose a bit of motivation,” Anyse says.

“Last time I just got on my float and took my time. Because it’s for a good cause, that’s what really gets you through.

“The governing body for the event are great. After registering, they provide you with swim caps and (temporary) face tattoos.

“Last year we had lots of fun with that – some teams dress up. It’s a great two days.”

Prizes can be won for participation and for significant fundraising attempts.

Awards such as “best dressed” and “youth award for fundraising efforts” will be presented after the event finishes on Sunday afternoon.

For more information, contact event organiser Mark Slade at Mildura Waves or visit www.msmegaswim.org,au.

Donors can donate easily online and seek further information on how the funding is distributed.