Brewster Neighbors Swimming in the Name of Cancer Prevention

Beth Stein of Brewster joined her neighborhood swim group in 2010 when she purchased a home there. Her neighbor invited her to join a group of 7 others to meet three mornings a week to swim across Baker’s Pond. She had always enjoyed swimming, but had no idea if or how to navigate across the pond. She tried it once and was hooked. The group is committed to their morning swim all summer and into the fall - rain or shine, and eagerly await the time each year when they can resume our trips across the pond. Some in the group have been swimming together for years; others are newer recruits.

“I look forward each subsequent summer to the beauty of that early morning swim,” says Stein. “We all have the same love for nature, the desire to stay healthy, and feel the joy of listening to the world wake up around us.”

Two years ago, the swim group joined together to form team “Lucky Greg” for the Against the Tide one-mile recreational swim, sponsored by Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition each August at Nickerson State Park. A decision inspired by one of their own team members who battled breast cancer.

“Our team, “Lucky Greg” (because he is our one and only lucky guy), will participate again this year and we are really looking forward to it!” says Stein. “Besides the personal satisfaction of completing the mile, to know you are swimming for a great cause makes it all the more rewarding.”

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC), the state’s leading breast cancer organization dedicated to prevention, will be hosting its annual, statewide Against the Tide athletic fundraising event for the 20th year on August 17th at Flax Pond in DCR’s Nickerson State Park. Proceeds from the event benefit MBCC’s community education programs and outreach.

Cheryl Osimo, MBCC Executive Director, commends the group of friends for their dedication to MBCC’s goal of preventing cancer before it starts: “This team is an inspiration to me and to so many others. They exemplify the spirit of Against the Tide through their comradery and perseverance. On behalf of MBCC, I am so grateful for their role in our work toward breast cancer prevention.”

Against the Tide is a family-friendly and inspirational event that brings people from all demographics together with one goal in mind: breast cancer prevention. The event offers participants of all ages the choice of up to four of the following components: competitive and recreational swims, recreational kayak, fitness walk, paddleboard and USA Track & Field certified 5K/10K runs. The event also offers an Aquathon component, where participants compete in the one-mile swim and immediately run 5K or 10K.

MBCC is inviting people throughout Massachusetts to register for the event at www.mbcc.org/swim or by calling 1-800-649-MBCC (6222). Those who cannot attend are encouraged to make a pledge to a registered participant or team. Participants may register as an individual or as part of a team. Registration is $40 per adult per event activity ($80 for Aquathon) or $25 per student per event activity ($50 for Aquathon). Children under 10 may participate in any event free of charge. Participants may register for a maximum of four events. We encourage all participants to fundraise beyond the registration minimum, as all proceeds support Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition. Prizes will be awarded to the podium finishers and top fundraisers.