Emma Pritchard
Together, they’re the Salty Sea Dogs.
And they’re determined to make a splash for charity.
Lorri Griffiths, Liz Hegedus, Sharon Lentfer, and Necia Creighton are currently training each week at the South Grafton Indoor Pool as they prepare to participate in a month-long swimming challenge called Laps for Life.
Aimed at raising funds and awareness to assist young people experiencing mental health challenges, Laps for Life also helps to prevent youth suicide through ReachOut, a mental health support service.
After watching her daughter suffer serious mental health issues as a teenager, Ms Griffiths said she felt inspired to sign up for Laps for Life and is aiming to swim a combined total of 50km during March.
A passionate advocate for mental health, Ms Griffiths is hoping to encourage more people to start conversations about the topic.
“There was such a stigma attached to mental health when I was growing up,” she explained.
“No one spoke about it, and it was very difficult to access help for those who were affected by it.
“If we’re going to successfully help people who are dealing with mental health issues, we need to act fast, start conversations, and nip the problem in the bud.”
Along with the Salty Sea Dogs, more than 6000 participants across the country have registered to take part in the Laps for Life swimming challenge, each one nominating to swim the distance of their choice by March 31.
At the time of publication, more than $627000 had already been raised.
“Anything we can do to help, we’ll do it,” Ms Griffiths said.
While she revealed her daughter is now living a good life, and has access to support services, Ms Griffiths said her family experienced multiple difficulties in seeking assistance to help her during her teens.
She is also encouraging other people to sign up and participate in Laps for Life.
“Every lap which is completed will help to make a positive impact,” she said.
During March, Ms Hegedus and Ms Creighton are aiming to swim 10km each, while Ms Lentfer said she is aiming to swim 20km.
To learn more about Laps for Life, and to support the Salty Sea Dogs, please visit www.lapsforlife.com.au