At just 16, Redhill School Grade 11 learner Esmé Kruger has already crossed Midmar Dam.

Her latest milestone is completing the Midmar Charity 8-Mile Challenge over two days, swimming four Midmar Miles each day in support of Cansa.

While the physical challenge is significant, 6,4km per day over two consecutive days, Esmé’s motivation runs far deeper.

Read more: Sandton quadriplegic swimmer completes Midmar Mile, raises R225 000 for neurological care

Cancer has shaped much of her family’s story.

She has lost three grandfathers and one grandmother to the disease.

In 2024, her father Pieter-Jan Kruger was also diagnosed with stage 1 melanoma, which was thankfully caught early. Those experiences changed how she saw her swimming.

“My original goal was to swim 18 Midmar Miles before I turn 18. But when I found out about the charity event, it made the goal so much more meaningful.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth For Esmé Kruger, the Midmar Charity 8-Mile was not just another race. Video: Duduzile Khumalo #Sandton #midmarmile ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

She added that balancing school, training and fundraising required discipline.

Also read: Couple to take on the Midmar Mile in support of Sandton SPCA

“Many mornings began at 4:30am, with gym sessions before school and guidance from my swimming coach and the support of my family made me commit fully to the process.”

She pointed out that she always stressed before races.

“But this time I reminded myself that I had already raised the money. I didn’t have to win. I was swimming for something bigger.”

Esmé said, the Midmar Charity 8-Mile was not just another race.

“It was a statement of my resilience and a way to honour those who were lost to my family, while supporting others who are still fighting.”

She concluded by saying that this will not be her last charity swim.

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