Abbey’s Hope Founder Embarks on Camino de Santiago to Raise Drowning Prevention Awareness

In six months, Katey Taylor, an advocate for drowning prevention and co-founder of Abbey’s Hope Charitable Foundation, will embark on a journey along the Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James. This ancient pilgrimage in Spain, spanning over 62 miles, will be both a physical challenge and a spiritual reflection for Taylor, as she walks for six continuous days to honor the memory of her daughter, Abbey, and raise awareness for Abbey’s Hope.

Taylor’s trek, aptly named “Trek for Good,” goes beyond a personal challenge. It is a mission to raise funds for Abbey’s Hope, a nonprofit organization focused on protecting children from drowning. Abbey’s Hope provides swimming lessons and water safety education and advocates for stronger legislation to ensure safety around water.

The foundation was formed in July 2008 by Scott and Katey Taylor after the loss of their 6-year-old daughter, Abbey. On June 29, 2007, Abbey was disemboweled by a faulty drain in a wading pool. Over nine months, she underwent 16 surgeries and a triple-organ transplant but ultimately died in March 2008.

“Abbey’s determination and spirit inspire me every day, and as I take each step on this journey, she will be my vision,” Taylor says. “I’ll think of how she found strength in moments of joy, and how my physical struggles pale in comparison to the weight of loss and grief so many carry.”

Donations to Abbey’s Hope Charitable Foundation help fund swimming lessons, water safety events and training programs like Adaptive Aquatics, which support vulnerable populations, including children with autism.

As Taylor prepares for her trek, she invites the pool and spa community to join her in making a difference. “Even if you can’t donate, I kindly ask for your prayers and support. Together, we can help ensure that no more lives are tragically lost to drowning.”

To support Taylor’s mission and Abbey’s Hope, donations can be made at her fundraising page. 

For more information on Abbey’s Hope, visit abbeyshope.org.