A group of swimmers is preparing to brave the water between Robben Island and Three Anchor Bay some time in the next 10 days to raise funds for the care and rehabilitation of a nine year old, Cameron Els.
This swim is attempted far less often than the one from Robben Island to Bloubergstrand and for good reason. At around 11km it is about 50 percent further and comes with its own set of challenges, the most obvious being the bitterly cold water. There are about sixteen solo swimmers and a number who will be doing it as a relay. All the solo swimmers will be wearing nothing more than a Speedo, goggles and cap.
Cameron was born with a brain stem tumour (Pilocytic Astrocytoma) and has to face tough challenges every day. At age two, Cameron underwent brain surgery and part of the tumour was successfully removed. What remained of the tumour continued to grow. By November 2008, Cameron’s condition had begun to deteriorate rapidly. This resulted in a major loss of neurological function, the most profound being his inability to walk and to talk. Unsuccessful chemotherapy followed by unsuccessful emergency radiation culminated in Cameron’s parents being delivered the worst news possible – in March 2009, Cameron was given three months to live.
But it was not to be and Cameron courageously fought back. Defying medical odds and to the sheer joy and delight of all who know and love him, Cameron has begun to make a miraculous recovery. Already learning to walk and talk again, Cameron has quickly regained his charming personality, and his bravery and determination endear him to everyone he meets.
After prodding by his daughter, a friend of Cameron and his neighbour in Pinelands, Martin Goodman, decided to do something to help the family and the idea of the swim was born. Many of the swimmers have never attempted this crossing before and their braveness is a tribute to Cameron too. The purpose of the swim is to raise funds towards Cameron’s rehabilitation and special schooling needs, as well as to assist other children with similar needs.
A window period between 27th August 2010 and the 5th September 2010 has been set for the Swim. Although the chances of there being perfect conditions at this time of the year the swimmers will set out if they consider the conditions manageable.
For more information go to the following links:
Link to The Cameron Campaign:
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cameroncampaign.co.za%2F&h=9e9e0
Link to info about the swim
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=115758511770191&v=wall&ref=ts
If you would like to make a contribution the Banking Details are:
The Cameron Campaign
Standard Bank
Claremont (025 109)
Account Number: 072556331 ( Cheque Acc )
Written by Liz Webb
Ed’s note: Liz, our South African recordbreaking swimmer from Simon’s Town, is participating in the swim and will keep us updated. Read more about her wonderful achievements on the following pages:
http://www.scenicsouth.co.za/showcasing/our-achievers/
http://www.scenicsouth.co.za/2010/01/overcome-your-fear-and-reach-your-dreams/
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