“Seeing the residents of The Virginia Home raise money through their Aquathon brings one's own efforts to help others into perspective.  For those who have so little and have been given obstacles of their own to reach out to others makes me realize that I can do more.  Every young person in this community should watch the residents give of themselves with such  joy.  They would quickly learn what ‘giving to others’ means.”

                                Mrs. G. Slaughter Fitz-Hugh, Jr.

                      Board of Trustees, The Virginia Home

 

 

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On the second Friday of December for the past 13 years, cheering can be heard throughout the halls of The Virginia Home.  The residents stir up quite a crowd around the facility’s therapeutic pool, as 40+ swimmers with physical disabilities take to the water to raise money for other charitable organizations.  The annual event, known as the Aquathon, has raised nearly $68,000 for area non-profits since its inception in 1998. 

The 14th Annual Aquathon will take place on Friday, December 9th 2011.  Swimmers will have 30 minutes to complete as many lengths of the pool as they can.  Floatation devices are permitted; however, swimmers must be able to propel themselves independently across the pool a minimum of one length.  Swimmers in excellent condition can complete 50-75 lengths in 30 minutes.  Some will work tirelessly to complete 2 or 3 lengths.

This year, residents have selected the Lone Survivor Foundation as their recipient.  Founded in 2010 by Navy SEAL (Ret.) Marcus Luttrell, the Lone Survivor Foundation’s mission is to “…go to extraordinary lengths to welcome home, restore, empower, and renew hope for America’s wounded warriors and their families.”  Luttrell understands firsthand the sacrifices and demands endured by America’s Armed Forces overseas and in combat.  After his return from Afghanistan, Luttrell established the Lone Survivor Foundation as a means of helping today’s warriors and their families adjust to life post-military and transition to what may be considered as a ‘new normal.’  The residents of The Virginia Home can identify with feeling empowered by their abilities, therefore were inspired to offer their support through the Aquathon.  

On March 29th 2012, Luttrell will visit The Virginia Home to congratulate the swimmers and accept their generous Aquathon donation!

To make a financial contribution in support of this year's Aquathon, please send a check made payable to Aquathon Fund to:

The Virginia Home

ATTN:  Jody Young

1101 Hampton St.

Richmond, VA 23220

Questions?  Call Jody at 804.359.4093.