Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1127311
While Lori is still working to make that dream a reality on a global scale, Swim4Elise has impacted many families—with $50,000 in scholarships granted since 2016, between 2,000-4,000 families reached each year through the Summer Daycare program, and more than $100,000 raised since inception. In one conversation with Lori, you experience the sheer strength, tenacity and love exhibited in her commitment to honoring her daughter and educating families. The same tenacity can be seen in her most recent victory. "We asked Elise's school to give her a posthumous diploma and call out her name during what would have been her senior graduation, but the school declined," Lori explained. "Current law dictates that seniors who were 'academically on track at the time of death to receive a diploma' are eligible for a posthumous degree." Elise was a freshman. "So, I wanted to change that law at the state level," Lori says matter-of-factly. HB 638 was passed by the State House in March 2019 and approved by the Texas Senate on May 13 th . It was signed by the governor of Texas on May 23 rd , 2019. "This is a big moment because there are so many grieving families. Having this bill passed in Texas gives families in other states something to reference, to say 'this has already been done in Texas, we should do it here.' Now they have something to bring to the table for discussions with their lawmakers." Lori's strength and ability to use her tragedy to empower and educate others is remarkable. In addition to advocating for water safety, Lori also speaks about her experience to communities nationwide. To book Lori, learn more about Swim4Elise, get water safety tips, donate or get involved, visit https://www.swim4elise.com/. 15 All photos and videos courtesy of SWIM4ELISE MYTH OR FACT: I'll hear it if a child is in danger of drowning. Misconception 1 Nearly half of parents surveyed think that if a child was drowning nearby, they would hear it� Reality Drowning is silent� There can be very little splashing, waving or screaming� MYTH OR FACT: I can step away for a few minutes while my child swims. Misconception 2 1 out of 3 parents have left a child alone in a pool for two or more minutes� Reality Drowning is quick� Once a child begins to struggle, you may have less than a minute to react� MYTH OR FACT: My child won't drown because he knows how to swim well. Misconception 3 60 percent of parents surveryed would not worry as much about drowning if their child has had swim lessons� Reality Swim lessons are essential, but skill level varies� A review of children who drowned in a pool revealed that 47 percent of 10-17 year olds reportedly knew how to swim� DROWNING: Myth vs. Fact These graphics and statistics are part of a July 2016 report published by SafeKids.org