23rd Annual SWIM Aquathon, Sunset Walk & Bone Marrow Drive

In Honor of Justin Puriance and Dylan Fortunato of Milford, CT

Friday, July 30, 2010 - Fairfield University RecPlex
Sponsored by WICC 600 and Coca-Cola
Aquathon: 12PM to 10PM
Walk: 7PM
Bone Marrow Drive: 4PM to 8PM


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Download the Brochure to Register (PDF)


Swimmers of all ages will take the plunge at the 23rd Annual St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound Aquathon, sponsored by WICC 600 and Coca Cola. The Aquathon will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Fairfield University Recplex in Fairfield. The Aquathon offers a challenge to local corporations, schools, community groups and individuals to raise money for the SWIM Across the Sound. Swimmers will come and go throughout the day and swim laps in the pool for pledges. Participants who raise pledges are treated to a picnic and receive specially designed T-shirts.

Aquathon Chairman Raymond Giovanni of Monroe, CT has volunteered for the charity organization since it began in 1987. “I lost a family member to cancer and this is a way for me to give back. The SWIM does so much good for the community. This year, we’re holding the event in honor of two young boys from Milford who are both battling leukemia – Justin Purviance and Dylan Fortunato. Teams are forming in their honor that anyone can join or make donations to,” he said.

Justin Purviance, age 6, is the son of of David and Liesel of Milford, CT. Just one day after his 6th birthday, Justin was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphatic leukemia. He went through eight months of intense chemotherapy treatments during which time he was unable to attend school. Justin returned to school in November of 2009 as a first grader while still receiving treatment. This past February, Justin’s Leukemia came back. He began chemotherapy again and was told he needed a bone marrow transplant. Justin’s father was his match and the father and son proceeded with the marrow transplant on May 7th. Justin is currently in the hospital.

Dylan Fortunato is the 9 year old son of Grace and Anthony Fortunato of Milford, CT. Dylan was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) three years ago. This past March, with only two treatments to go before he was officially in remission, he relapsed and the leukemia returned. Dylan started an intense round of chemotherapy in June, which he will continue to endure for the next several months. When Dylan is feeling well, he enjoys playing baseball. His favorite team is the New York Yankees.

The 2009 Aquathon raised more than $20,000 to support the SWIM Across the Sound’s 40 cancer education, screening, prevention and support programs. The SWIM also provides financial assistance on a case-by-case basis to individual cancer patients and their families. Each year, more than 20,000 people benefit from the SWIM programs. More than 100 swimmers and walkers are expected to participate throughout the day.

The Team Challenge
The Aquathon offers a challenge to local corporations, schools, community groups, families and individuals to swim as a team for the fight against cancer. Registration is required to secure your individual or team’s time and space at the pool.

Pledges and Prizes
Each Swimmer/Walker must raise a minimum of $50 in pledges and will receive a SWIM Across the Sound T-Shirt. Additional prizes are awarded at $100, $200 and $350 in pledges.

The 2-Mile Sunset Walk for Cancer
For those who prefer dry land, leave the pool for water-babies and join us on the Sunset 2-Mile Walk for Cancer. The day-long event finishes up with the walk at 7:00 p.m. Walkers will follow the course that winds through the beautiful Fairfield University campus. Walkers can go at their own pace and help raise funds for cancer survivors and their families.

Bone Marrow Donor Drive
Help boys like Justin Purviance and Dylan Fortunato of Milford by joining the Be The Match Registry at the St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound Aquathon on Friday, July 30, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Fairfield University Recplex.

Every year 10,000 patients like Justin and Dylan need a marrow transplant using blood stem cells from a caring stranger. Become a marrow donor with some simple paperwork and a cheek swab sample. It only takes 10 minutes! You must be between the ages of 18 and 60 and in good health. There is no cost to Connecticut residents to be tested thanks to Michael's Fund of Fall River, MA. If you later match a patient, most donations can be made through an automated blood donation. To learn more about bone marrow donation, visit www.bethematch.org or click here to download the flyer (PDF).

Aquathon & Walk Registration
Early registration is suggested! For more information or to register, download  the brochure (coming soon) and send in the registration form or contact Michael Murray via E-mail at michael.p.murray@marriott.com

You may also call St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation at 203-576-5451 or E-mail events@stvincents.org.

Fun for families and children of all ages.



(L to R) Aquathon Chair Ray Giovanni; Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch; Fairfield First Selectman Ken Flatto; Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and Senator John McKinneykick-off the 2009 Aquathon.