The Little Falls Penguins of Bethesda, Maryland have been holding annual swims to raise funds for Team Hydro’s research grants for eight years now. Inspired by the story of their fallen teammate, Kate Finlayson, they find that using their swimming skills to contribute positively to the world and serve those in need is a wonderful way to live. This year, COVID-19 upended their season and they have had to adjust — as have we all. But it takes more than a global pandemic to stop a penguin. Especially a Little Falls Penguin! These bold swimmers have kept up their annual commitment to pushing hydrocephalus research forward.
Assistant Coach and current swimmer James Marder reached out to Team Hydro to see how they could keep the spirit of giving back alive. “When I first took part in our Penguin Plunge at eight years old, I didn’t truly understand its nature, I saw it as a competition to swim the most laps,” said James. “As years past, I came to see the true reason we participate in this tradition, and I decided that I wanted to do all I could to still raise money in the year without the event.”
In these trying times it is wonderful to have examples like the swimmers at Little Falls who look beyond themselves to lift up those around them. While covid stopped a lot, it didn’t stop hydrocephalus. And it hasn’t stopped Team Hydro or the Penguins in our quest to fund a cure!
You can support the efforts of the Little Falls Penguins and help them reach there goal HERE. 100% of funds received go directly to research!