Plunge in for Lungs this May and help play a vital role in providing research and support for lung health. Lung Foundation Australia supporter, Zari Simmons, shares why she took on the challenge and why others should get involved.
Meet Zari Simmons
Zari Simmons, 23, completed a personal fundraising challenge over the last 42 days of 2023. In July 2023, Zari and her family sadly lost her father, Derek Simmons, after a short battle with lung cancer, aged just 63. Zari created Derek’s Legacy Lap Challenge in honour of her dad’s memory. It also offered Zari a way to contribute and fundraise for others going through battles with lung cancer and lung health diseases.
“The timing of my dad’s death was particularly tragic… He was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer on July 5th. His condition worsened, and he passed away on July 18th. This was just five weeks after going to the doctor, getting tested and receiving his diagnosis,” said Zari.
“Looking back, I realise my dad may have been unwell for some time. But it wasn’t until a particular doctor urged him to get further testing that we discovered the severity of his illness.
“My dad was a phenomenal person. Devoted to his children, deeply in love with my mum (Leonora Houlahan), and the epitome of hard work. His sudden departure has left a profound void, one I’m still grappling to comprehend.”
Why Zari decided to take the plunge
“I decided to turn this sadness into something positive. My dad would want me to raise awareness and make something good out of this tough situation,” said Zari.
Derek’s Legacy Lap Challenge saw Zari complete a total of 40km swimming in the pool at her local gym, over 42 days. With her mum by her side, Zari felt contributing to Lung Foundation Australia was a positive way of making a change in her father’s memory. Zari completed approximately 1km each day, sharing regular updates with her friends, family and donors through social media.
“This physical challenge is more than a personal goal. It’s a symbolic journey, mirroring the broader challenges faced by individuals dealing with lung disease. It’s a cause that’s close to my heart, and every dollar brings us closer to a future where lung disease is better understood and treated.
” I firmly believe my dad would want me to carry on his legacy by advocating for him and others,” adds Zari.
Zari’s fundraising efforts through friends and family, amassed to over $1400. Zari strongly encourages others considering fundraising for Lung Foundation Australia to take the plunge for Lung Health Awareness Month this May.
“I’m super happy with the fundraising total,” said Zari.
How does your support help?
One in three people are impacted by lung disease or lung cancer. The money raised through fundraisers like Zari, provides funds for research and support.
With your fundraising efforts, research helps to discover:
- Faster ways to diagnose lung diseases and lung cancer
- More effective treatments to give families more precious time
- More cures for lung diseases and lung cancer.
This May, we are calling on Australians to join us for Plunge In For Lungs, the ultimate cold-water challenge. We’re calling on Aussies to dive, jump or splash into the ocean (or pool) for Lung Health Awareness Month and help raise critical funds to help improve lung health in Australia. Furthermore, your fundraising efforts can help to protect future generations from lung disease. Like Zari, you could make a positive impact on the lives of people impacted by lung disease.
Raise $100 with your Plunge In For Lungs fundraising page and you will also receive your free Lung Foundation Australia sports towel! Each registrant who raises over $100 will receive the merch item posted to them. Take it to your next swim and tag us on social media @lungfoundation #lunghealthawarenessmonth #plungeinforlungs
