Gillette, Wyoming went all out to show their support for Choose Living with a fundraising swimathon on February 16. Sandra Bott, Senior Recreation Program Supervisor, and her husband Josh Bott, Aquatics Manager, put together a team of determined swimmers to help bring some light into the lives of people dealing with challenges around the world.
After hearing Jim MacLaren tell his story while speaking in Gillette last September, Sandra knew she wanted to do something to help Jim’s Choose Living Foundation. She got together with Josh and they decided a Swimathon would be just the thing.
With the help of several generous local athletes and even more community supporters they raised over $3,000.00. A great accomplishment for a first time fundraiser!
Sandra and her team hope to escalate the event annually with the goal of raising even more funds to support Jim and his mission.
Choose Living sends out a HUGE thank you to Sandra & Josh Bott, the following Swim Team members & the Gillette, WY community for their VERY SUCCESSFUL FIRST ANNUAL SWIMATHON for Choose Living. Your support and kindness mean so much to so many.
Individuals
Floyd Cape - Regular recreation lap swimmer
Mark Painter - Regular recreation lap swimmer
Lifeguard Team
Mike Rivers - Rec Center lifeguard
Alana Fatula - Rec Center lifeguard
Peter Swanson - Rec Center lifeguard
Trapper Rieniets - Rec Center lifeguard
Katie McDougal - Rec Center lifeguard
Beaver Family
Clint Beaver - Regular recreation lap swimmer
Noah Beaver - Clint's son
Lindsey Beaver - Clint's daughter
Wilson Team
Mary Ann Wilson - Josh's Mom
Kelly Wilson - Josh's Step-Dad
North Platte Physical Therapy
Todd Gentzler - Regular recreation lap swimmer (Head Physical Therapist)
Dawn Gentzler - Todd's wife
Deb Percifield - North Platte Therapist
Melissa Metcalf - North Platte Therapist
Kacee Pikula - North Platte Therapist
Lauren Pikula - Kacee's Daughter (7 years old)
Rec Center Team
Jackie Roberts - Full time rec center employee (Senior Lifeguard)
Chris Waldock - Fitness instructor
Derek Friedlan - College student & part time rec center employee (lifeguard, swim lessons, receptionist)
Bott Team
Sandy Bott - Senior Recreation Program Supervisor
Josh Bott - Aquatics Manager
Alex has touched our hearts with her story of courage and determination. She has ignored a death sentence by her doctors and decided to “Choose Living”. We are inspired by her daily.
We know there is an answer for her recovery out there somewhere. Please read her story and help us find an answer for her illness.
One family’s journey to find a diagnosis for their daughter
"Alexandria (Alex) Hermstad was a growing, healthy, and thriving young lady. Her mom Lori, dad Jeff, and sister Jaci (Jay-cee) was just getting adjusted to their new home. She was 11 years old when her symptoms began in April, 2005. Alex loved sports, riding her horse, snowmobiling and basically anything that had to do with the outdoors. In the spring of 2005, Alex went to a pitching clinic as she enjoyed pitching on her softball team. Shortly thereafter, her left elbow had pain and swelling. We attributed it to a sports injury. Weeks later, there was still swelling and soon she couldn’t bend her arm anymore. Alex has a strong spirit. She was trying to handle all of this herself. The arm became weaker and soon she could not raise it anymore..."
Click here for the full story
Jim & Katie a friendship that will live on forever
On Wednesday April 25, 2007, one of “Choose Living’s angels” Katie Morris returned to heaven. Katie made an imprint on all of our souls that will last for all eternity. Until we meet again your spirit remains in our hearts. You are a gift to us all!
We love you Katie!
Katie Marie Morris
April 19, 1994- April 25, 2007