There are days when the pool deck can feel far from home.
For international swimmer Lismar Lyon, who trains with South Florida Aquatic Club and represents Venezuela on the world stage, that distance has felt especially real in recent days.
News that her home country has been struck by two earthquakes has carried both grief and urgency for Lyon, prompting her to call for action.
“As you probably know, Venezuela was hit with two earthquakes that devastated different parts of the country, claimed the lives of many, and left those in the surrounding areas in extremely harsh conditions,” she said.
Communities are now in dire need of food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies. She is urging anyone who is able, especially within South Florida’s Venezuelan and swimming communities, to direct support where it is most needed.
For those in the Miami area, Lyon pointed to relief efforts coordinated through the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), which is currently collecting priority medical and food supplies.
Donations are being accepted at its Doral location: 1850 NW 84th Ave #100, Doral, Florida 33126
Organizers are primarily requesting first aid supplies and canned foods, with limited acceptance of clothing and water due to space constraints, as relief efforts prioritize medical and essential items.
South Florida is home to a large Venezuelan community, and the impact of the earthquakes has been felt across many local swimming programs. Several clubs, including South Florida Aquatic Club and Doral Swim Club, have been coordinating or supporting relief efforts in their own ways.
For those outside of South Florida, Lyon has also pointed to verified online donation platforms, including a GoFundMe campaign supporting earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela:
All the way from South Florida, her focus remains connected to home.
“I’ll take the liberty to speak on behalf of my people to say that anyone who helps to spread the word is extremely appreciated,” Lyon said. “God bless everyone who helps. Thanks.”
