Staten Island, NY – The Wagner College women's swimming & diving team will hold a fundraiser to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at the Seahawks' home meet against St. Francis (NY) on Saturday, Nov. 3.

The benefit was inspired by Wagner junior Megan DiBenedetto (Brooklyn, NY/ Bishop Kearney), who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis.

"I'm so grateful that we could organize this event, as it's something very close to me,” DiBenedetto said. “This is a great way to inspire people to get involved with the foundation and to share my story. The support from my family, team, coaches, and everyone at Wagner has been incredible." 

“I am so pleased that we are able to help such a wonderful organization,” said Wagner head swimming & diving coach Colin Shannahan. “Having an athlete on our team that is afflicted with Cystic Fibrosis, I see the struggles and difficulties that she goes through on a daily basis.  Her strength and determination are a constant source of inspiration for her teammates as well as me and my coaching staff.  I am thrilled that we can help raise funds and awareness for an organization that she works with so closely.”

In addition to the fundraiser at the meet, donations can be made via DiBenedetto's page on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's website.  Also, a dinner benefit will take place on Thursday, Nov. 1 from 5-10 pm at Jimmy Max's, located at 280 Watchogue Road on Staten Island. The restaurant will donate half of any bill to the fundraiser (to those that state they are there for Wagner Swimming & Diving).

The Seahawks are also telling t-shirts for the event. The cost is $15. For more information on the fundraisers, contact assistant coach Laura De Gore at (718) 420-4063 or laura.degore@wagner.edu .