By CRAIG FREILICH

HANNAWA FALLS – The ninth Swim a Mile for Hospice event Aug. 11 has shattered last year’s fundraising record.

“It was fantastic, really overwhelming. ” said Kellie Hitchman, director of development and community relations for Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley.

The annual event, in the Raquette River at Postwood Park, raised $37,000, easily outpacing last year’s figure of $32,000 raised.

There were 74 registered swimmers plus volunteers on shore and on the water providing safety coverage.

“We had outstanding support, with the number of swimmers and the number of donations people pledged,” Hitchman said. “It couldn’t have been a better day.”

Founded in 1983 as an all- volunteer organization serving one patient, Hospice now employs 70 full and part- time staff members, and 110 volunteers provide patient care and staff support. compassionate care for people affected by advanced illness and grief.

“There are so many people who care about Hospice,” Hitchman said. “That money will supply a lot of support when people need it.”