Married couple to make big swim across Lake Michigan, Escort boats needed | Community Spirit

Sara and Jeff Tow of Belmont will become the first married couple to swim across Lake Michigan, from Two Rivers, Wis. to Ludington, while raising awareness of postpartum depression (PPD). This unprecedented swim also will be the first crossing of Lake Michigan by a U.S. female and the second and third lake crossing at Lake Michigan’s midpoint by any individual.

On Sunday, August 5, the team of boats that had committed to escorting the Tows across the lake backed out after nearly a month of working together. By Monday night, the Tows were able to secure one power boat to act as guide across the lake. After a year of training for this event, the Tows are down to the final days to make the swim a reality. A second boat would provide a safety net in case there were issues with the primary boat.

Sara and Jeff suffered from postpartum depression with both of their children. Since PPD affects nearly one in seven moms and one in 10 dads, it is clear this is a big issue in our country. Only recently has it been more recognized, and families are starting to get the help they need. The two are extremely passionate about this cause and agreed the time was right to really push it to the forefront in our society.

The Tows hope to serve as inspiration for parents struggling with PPD.

"Having a new baby is like stepping into the unknown, and it can be overwhelming," Sara Tow said. "New parents have periods of uncertainty, but along the way they need to stay mindful that they will see solid ground again. They can get through it, step out of these blues and find their legs again."

This would be the first major public event highlighting this mental illness. The attention gained will help families feel more comfortable coming forward to get the help they need and will be something that industry practitioners can use as a vehicle to get the word out with their clients.

To learn more about this tremendous event, visit www.facebook.com/throughtheblue or www.throughtheblue.org.

If you would like to help by providing an escort boat, email teamtow@throughtheblue.org or call 616-951-4-TTB.