Valparaiso's Paul Sommer is a man on a mission. A podiatrist by trade, Sommer has dedicated his life to helping others, leveraging his love for endurance sports to raise funds for causes he cares about. His latest endeavor is a testament to his unwavering commitment to making a difference. Sommer is set to swim the Chicago River in September 2026, an event that has been a part of Chicago's history since 1908. This year's swim will be a special one, as Sommer will be swimming alongside his friend Jeff Birkel, who has been living with ALS for three years. The event will not only be a personal triumph for Sommer but also a chance to raise awareness and funds for ALS research.
Sommer's journey to becoming a hero in his community began in 2011 when he carried Kyle Polhemus, a young man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, through the Valpo triathlon course. This act of kindness sparked a lifelong crusade for Sommer, who has since become a key fundraiser for soldiers and families in Ukraine. However, his true passion lies in helping those affected by ALS, a disease that has touched his life in a profound way.
The Chicago River Swim is a historic event that has been a part of Chicago's cultural fabric since the early 20th century. It was originally organized to celebrate the improvement of the Chicago River, which was engineered to reverse its flow in 1900, allowing it to clean itself and support the growing urban population. The event attracted high-profile swimmers from around the world, including Olympic star John Weissmuller, who won the event twice before a crowd of over 100,000 spectators.
However, the swim's popularity waned in the late 1920s due to industrial discharge and street runoff polluting the river water. It wasn't until the 1970s that the Clean Water Act and the Environmental Protection Agency began to enforce discharge violations, leading to the river's current state of cleanliness. According to city officials, the Chicago River is now home to over 80 species of fish, making it a haven for aquatic life.
Sommer's participation in the Chicago River Swim is a testament to his dedication to making a difference. His fundraising goal of $42,000 is a significant challenge, but his passion and determination are sure to inspire others to join him in his mission. The event is set to take place on Sunday, September 20, and applications are already filled, indicating the high level of interest in this year's swim.
Sommer's story is a reminder that one person can make a difference. His unwavering commitment to helping others, combined with his love for endurance sports, has made him a hero in his community. As he prepares to swim the Chicago River, he is not only raising funds for a worthy cause but also inspiring others to join him in making a positive impact on the world.
