64-Year-Old Njeri Completes 6-Hour Swimming Marathon for Autism Awareness

64-year-old Sally Njeri on Saturday successfully completed a six-hour swimming marathon at the Nakuru Athletic Club, raising funds for children with autism and the Kenya Life Savers Federation.

The marathon, which captivated local audiences, exemplifies Njeri's commitment to community service and social change. Prior to entering the water, Njeri articulated her ambitious mission to swim continuously for six hours, emphasizing that contributions of any size would make a meaningful impact. Her campaign specifically targeted two causes: supporting children with autism and providing essential equipment for rescue divers. She explained that these children are often overlooked by society.

“Let us support these children. They are children that are normally left out, but I want as from today I want us to be thinking of these children so that we can leave them with a smile on their faces,” she said.

The marathon began at 8:55 AM, with Njeri broadcasting the event live on Facebook to engage supporters. Despite experiencing muscle cramps in the final stretch, she demonstrated remarkable fortitude, completing the full six-hour challenge. To facilitate donations, Njeri established a temporary MPESA collection point, with plans to implement a more permanent Paybill system in the coming weeks. Njeri's dedication to aquatic pursuits spans a quarter century, beginning when she made the bold decision to leave university and pursue diving professionally.

“Well-wishers can send their contributions to the MPESA number 0721101851 until next week when a paybill will be prepared then we can start paying to the Paybill,” she added.

As a volunteer diver with the Kenya Life Savers Federation, she has faced numerous challenges but remains steadfast in her commitment. Her expertise proved invaluable during a critical 41-day search operation in 2017, when she assisted in recovering three bodies from Lake Nakuru following a helicopter accident. The funds generated will serve the dual purposes of enhancing support services for children with autism and upgrading equipment for rescue diving operations.