For most children, summer means waking up late and having as much fun as possible before the school year begins. For Nolan Killeen however, summer meant waking up at 6:30 a.m to swim laps for a cause that he keeps close to his heart. 

Medal received by Nolan Killeen for completing the Swim Challenge. Photo credit: Holly Killeen

By Roz Green

This July, nine-year-old Nolan, a member of the West Hartford Aquatic Team (WHAT), set out to swim 5 miles in an effort to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

Nolan, who took on this challenge entirely by choice, spent a lot of his time swimming laps rather than hanging out with friends or enjoying summer camp. Though Nolan had to give up some of the fun summer activities, he was determined to take on the difficult task. In the end, not only did Nolan complete his distance goal, but he reached his fundraising goal as well. 

Alexandra “Coach Alex” Albert, the head coach of the men’s and women’s swim programs at the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, was moved by Nolan’s achievements. “She felt so inspired by Nolan that without hesitation she signed up the same day,” said Nolan’s mom, Holly Killeen. Coach Alex had been working privately with Nolan all summer, and because of his hard work and dedication, she decided to launch her own fundraiser swimming 5 miles to support the fight against cancer. 

Coach Alex working with Nolan Killeen. Photo credit: Holly Killeen

“This particular fundraiser we found online,” Holly explained. “Nolan says it feels good to help people in need, and he’s proud when he can make a difference. He often asks us to help him find more ways to give back.” Holly further stated that giving back is extremely important and a core value for their family.

After successfully completing their swims, both Nolan and Coach Alex received medals recognizing their commitment to raising money for the American Cancer Society. After Nolan completed his swim and received his medal, smiling broadly, he said that he “felt like a million bucks.”

Holly said Nolan’s love for giving back is contagious, and he shares his story with others in hopes of influencing others to do the same. 

“Watching him swim for a good cause made us proud because of his determination and heart behind every stroke,” said Holly and her husband Tom Killeen, a former Division I swimmer at the University of Connecticut, who was especially proud of his son. 

Nolan’s dedication not only raised money for cancer research, but also inspired older generations to take action. Both Nolan and Coach Alex were able to raise awareness as well as funds for the American Cancer Society, and hopefully encourage others to donate and make a positive change as well. 

As summer comes to an end and the school year quickly approaches, Nolan, who is now a rising fourth grader at Renbrook School, is already planning what he can do next summer to give back and help others. His ongoing dedication to serving those in need inspires so many to do the same. 

Medal received by Nolan Killeen for completing the Swim Challenge. Photo credit: Holly Killeen

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