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USH X Swim Alcatraz 2026 fundraiser

William Laramie & Sara Fauquher

Meet William and Sara
Support William and Sara

Meet William (Bill) and Sara, who will both swim from alcatraz to shore this October for our USH x Swim alcatraz fundraiser. All proceeds from this event go directly towards research for all types of Usher syndrome.

Sara and Bill met online on August 3, 2023, beginning a journey that neither of them could have imagined. In early September, Bill shared with Sara that he had been diagnosed with Usher Syndrome Type 2 in his late twenties, with characteristics similar to Type 2A. Rather than letting his diagnosis define their relationship, it became another step in building trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to living life to the fullest.

Because they lived three hours apart and Bill didn’t drive, Sara made the trip to cheer him on as he competed in a duathlon. Bill had recently begun his endurance sports journey, and swimming was his greatest challenge. Ironically, it was Sara’s strongest discipline—a perfect example of how they complemented each other from the very beginning.

A close up image of a man and woman who are both smiling wide. The woman has short blonde hair and the man has no hair.
A close up image of a man and a woman taking a selfie. They are both wearing beanie hats and biting a medal with a smile on their faces.

William Laramie, 55 – Hammond, Indiana

Bill has never allowed Usher syndrome to keep him from pursuing adventure. One of his proudest accomplishments has been raising his three incredible children—Jeremy, Kemaleigh, and Olivia—whose love and encouragement continue to inspire him.

Over the years, Bill has competed in numerous races and triathlons, including the Boston Marathon and the New York City Marathon. He also qualified as a para-athlete for the National Triathlon Championships, proving that determination and perseverance can overcome many obstacles. He is honored to have been selected to participate in the Swim from Alcatraz to help raise awareness for Usher syndrome.

Sara Fauquher, 48 – Muncie, Indiana

Sara has been swimming competitively since she was six years old, and the water has always been her happy place. She is a teacher and the proud mother of three amazing children—Colton, Carter, and Ainsley.

After completing her first triathlon in 2011, Sara fell in love with open water swimming. That passion led her to spend two incredible years living and swimming in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where she gained a deep appreciation for both the beauty and challenge of open water.

She is honored to be participating in the Swim from Alcatraz for Usher syndrome awareness alongside her fiancé, William Laramie. Although she has extensive open water experience, this will be her first race in the Pacific Ocean, making the event an exciting new adventure.

 

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Together, Bill and Sara have competed in races both individually and as a team, encouraging one another through every challenge, every finish line, and every new goal. On September 24, 2026, Bill proposed to Sara at Wrigley Field, marking the beginning of their next chapter together.

Completing the Swim from Alcatraz side by side is more than an athletic accomplishment—it’s a symbol of their partnership and their commitment to raising awareness for Usher syndrome. They hope their journey inspires others to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles they face while helping advance awareness, research, and support for individuals and families affected by Usher syndrome.