Larnie Chapman will take on the challenge at 11am on Saturday, November 24, at the Denman Memorial Pool and attempt the 340 laps by herself.

The number 17 has special significance to Larnie, who said she is swimming a kilometre for every week her pop lived with cancer.

Her decision to undertake the physical challenge is one she believes he would’ve been proud of as a former athlete himself.

“I chose to swim because I’m a swimmer and I love swimming,” she said.

“He was always very supportive of my swimming and he did it for years, too.”

Several groups have jumped on board the cause so far in her pursuit of raising $4000, and Larnie said words can’t describe how grateful she was for all of the support.

“I got a donation from Mangoola mine and, when I received it, I cried,” she explained.

“It was just amazing… it’s mind-blowing how many people actually want to support us.”

There are several ways to be involved with the fundraiser, which has been registered with and endorsed by Pancare.

Larnie is trying to obtain sponsorship for some of the children she coaches as part of the Denman Swimming Club, and said just 50 cents or $1 per lap would be appreciated.

Raffles, stalls and a barbecue will also be held on the day with groups from many of the surrounding communities lending a hand, including the Muswellbrook Shire Council, which have granted access to the pool for the day.

She urged as many people as possible to get involved and help fight the cancer with the nation’s worst mortality rate.

You can contact Larnie on 0497 027 630 or her mother Virginia on 0407 437 108, or help out by visiting their donation page at https://swim.gofundraise.com.au/page/LarnieChapman.