Dear friends and supporters,

Most of you may know me, and for those who do not, let me introduce myself. My name is Rachel Griffin, and my heart is set on making a meaningful impact in the world. I draw daily inspiration from the extraordinary strength of those facing cancer. In their honor, I’ve taken on a significant challenge—pursuing the Triple Crown of open water swimming. To date, only 366 people in the world have completed this feat. My mission is to raise critical funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer research, all cancer research, patient care, and advocacy. I swim in memory of my incredible mother, Patricia A. Griffin, who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer 17 years ago this May, and now also in memory of my beloved father, William P. Griffin, who recently passed away on April 23rd. I am profoundly grateful to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for the exceptional care, compassion, and dignity they extended to both of my parents. This swim is a tribute to their strength and a step forward in the fight against these devastating diseases.

Recognizing the ambitious nature of this goal, I embarked on my journey in 2018. As a solo swimmer, I successfully conquered two of the world's toughest open water swims—the Catalina Channel, 21 miles from Catalina Island to Palos Verdes, California - 2018 and the 20 Bridges, also known as the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim, a 28.5-mile circumnavigation of Manhattan Island - 2019.

This summer, in honor of my mom and all of those who are battling cancer, I am taking on the challenge of swimming across the English Channel (minimum of 21 miles) on July 31st (or as close to that date as weather permits) to complete the Triple Crown. If I am lucky, the weather will be favorable, the water temp with be in the upper 50s / low 60s, the jellyfish will be sleeping, the freighter traffic will be light and the lady of the sea will politely let me cross - all while ONLY wearing a swimsuit, swim cap, goggles and ear plugs. I know this journey will demand rigorous training—cold open water swims, countless hours at the pool and gym—testing my body and mind like never before. Yet, these challenges pale in comparison to the struggles faced by those battling cancer.

My swimming goal is lofty, and so is my fundraising target for the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center -- to raise $50,000! While it may seem like a substantial amount, envision the lives we can positively impact together.

Join me in "Channeling A Cure." Your financial support will propel each stroke, motivating me every step of the way. You are the buoyancy that keeps me afloat!

In advance, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for any amount you choose to contribute. Your donations and encouraging words mean the world to me during this challenging endeavor.

Let's make waves against cancer—stroke by stroke, mile by mile.

All my love,

Rachel

*** Follow along at www.facebook.com/ChannelingACure
*** For those that donate $250 or more will receive a Channeling A Cure T-Shirt - please put your size next to your name.
*** For those that donate $500 or more will receive a Channeling A Cure Hoodie OR (2) T- Shirts - please put your size next to your name.
*** For those that donate $2,500 or more will receive their name or logo on the back of the Channeling A Cure Tee / Hoodie as a Special Thank You and (1) Hoodie OR (2) T-Shirts - please put the sizes next to your name
*** For those that donate $5,000 or more will receive their name or logo on the back of the Channeling A Cure Tee / Hoodie as a Special Thank You and (1) Hoodie AND (2) T-Shirts - please put the sizes next to your name

*** We will have (2) shipments of Tees / Hoodies - June and September ***