MACKENZIE Bell of Anna Bay was just two when her mum, Deanna Bell, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Now ten, she has just completed her second swim in the MS Swimathon at Sydney Olympic pool.

This year her target was to raise $1,000; almost doubling her target, she raised a whopping $1,860.

Mackenzie, told News Of The Area, “It makes me feel good, because I am helping people with MS and the money for research is important.”

Totalling 2.5km over the weekend, Mackenzie said, “At first I was swimming too fast and ran out of puff, when I improved my swimming, it was a lot easier.”

As well as raising money for MS, Mackenzie supports the RSPCA Million Paws Walk, to fight against animal cruelty.

Deanna said, “Mac is a great kid, she loves to swim, and jumped at the opportunity to swim for MS. Peter (Mackenzie’s dad), and I couldn’t be more proud, she is willing to always help out.”

Given her mum is from Canada, the team name, Dam Beavers, is something personal, fitting, and one which Mackenzie uses with pride.

Ms Helen Bourne, Principal at St Michael’s Catholic School, Nelson Bay, said, “We are very proud of Mackenzie for taking on the challenge, especially as she did not know any other participants.”

“Mackenzie has kept us all up to date with her fundraising, and confidently took to the stage in front of 300 students and spoke about her trip, how she felt, how at first, not knowing anyone was difficult, and by the end of the weekend had made some new friends.”

Donations can still be made at www.msmegaswim.org.au.

Type in Mackenzie Bell in the search for a team which will take you to Mackenzie’s page where you can read more about her journey.

By Mandy ELLIS