Shark Strong Swim Challenge – Supporting NAMI in West Virgin

Hi! My name is Araya Patterson, and for my 20th birthday, I’m challenging myself to swim 20,000 yards in one day — that’s 800 laps in a 25-yard pool. It’s a huge physical and mental feat, and I’ll be doing it in 4 straight increments with short breaks in between.

But I want this challenge to be more than just distance — I’m swimming with purpose.

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Why this matters to me:

1 in 5 people live with a mental illness.

Nearly 50% of college students report symptoms of anxiety or depression.

And yet stigma, silence, and limited access still prevent many from getting the support they need.

Swimming has helped me stay grounded, push through hard moments, and reconnect with myself. Movement is a proven way to support mental health — and I want to turn my swim into something that raises both awareness and hope.

That’s why I’m raising money for NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) — one of the nation’s leading nonprofits supporting people and families affected by mental health challenges.

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My Goal: $400

Every donation — no matter the amount — goes directly to NAMI through this GoFundMe. Your support helps fund mental health education, peer support, advocacy, and life-saving resources.

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For every donor:

As a thank you, you’ll receive a small gift bag after my swim, including:

    •    Local mental health resources

    •    A sweet treat

    •    A personalized thank-you

    •    Your name on my lap dedication chart (every donor = a lap!)

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Thank you for supporting me and supporting a cause that affects so many.

Let’s swim toward something better — together.

— Araya