Martha’s Vineyard Teens Lead Swim to Fight Cancer

Two teens from Martha's Vineyard are making waves this summer and raising money for cancer research.

Meet the Teens Behind Martha's Vineyard's New Swim Event

Seventeen-year-olds Leah Thomson and Zoe Treitman are leading the charge in organizing the island's first-ever Swim Across America Martha's Vineyard open water swim at Menemsha Beach on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

Inspired by Family Members Lost to Cancer

“I was inspired to get involved with Swim Across America for my Grammy, for family members who are facing cancer and for my dear friend and coach Jay Grossman,” Thomson said.

Her grandmother passed from metastatic breast cancer when Leah was just five years old and her great-aunt passed after her own cancer battle. She has other family members and friends currently battling the horrible disease.

“Swimming is nothing compared to the challenges our loved ones with cancer face. By helping put on this event, I can help make a difference and swim for those who can’t and with my community’s support, I know it will help make a significant impact on cancer care on our island," Thomson said.

Turning Personal Loss Into Community Action

Treitman has also lost loved ones to cancer. Her grandmother lost her battle with colon cancer years ago.

“So many on Martha's Vineyard and beyond are affected by cancer, and I want to help make their quality of life better all while raising funds locally that stay local, supporting Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute Martha's Vineyard Hospital here on the island,” she said.

How the Swim Will Support Local Cancer Care

“Cancer has taken so many of our loved ones, and we want to do all we can to fight it. I hope our community will come out and join us on Saturday, July 18, at Menemsha Beach and help us make waves to fight cancer,” Treitman said.