Martijn Meier from Appingedam will swim from Groningen to Appingedam on Saturday 25 June at 8.30 am. He does this to raise money for Noa and Make a Memory.
Meier has now raised more than 5300 euros via Geef.nl. After months of training, the lifeguard and swimming instructor will take on the 22 kilometer long challenge through the Damsterdiep. The finish behind the Nicolaïkerk is expected to be between 15.30 and 16.00.
A representative of the Make A Memory Foundation will be present there so that Martijn and his wife Evelien can hand over the check with the amount he has swum together.
He started collecting more than two years ago. “Two years ago I registered for the Run van Winschoten to run 100 kilometers. Unfortunately, this was canceled due to the corona crisis and injuries. Because I have already received a lot of sponsorship for that, I have set myself this new goal.”
Very personal charity
Make a Memory is a very personal charity for Meier. “In December 2012, our daughter Noa was born. During the delivery Noa had a shortage of oxygen, so we had to let her go after three days. The greatest loss is still there every day. Thanks to the Make a Memory foundation, we have received beautiful photos as memories that we still look at every day. This is very valuable to us.”
“Children still die prematurely or after childbirth. To support these parents, the Make a Memory foundation was established. Make a Memory takes photos of seriously ill, terminal and deceased children. The photos provide the parents with comfort and a lasting memory and can help them cope with this great loss.”
Sports as an outlet
“Because of the loss of my daughter, I started exercising as an outlet.” And that immediately too firmly. He twice completed the triathlon that is known as one of the toughest in the world, the Ironman. “I am grateful to Noa for the strength she has given me to continue after this great loss. I would like to give something back to Noa, but also to all parents who do not yet know what the future will bring.”
During his swim, Meier takes a break in Ten Post about halfway, around 11:30 am. “It is possible for interested parties to drive or cycle along the route. Encouragement is very welcome. I can certainly use that while swimming.”
More information, including about donating, can be found at: give.nl.