Christy Swaid is a remarkable athlete, entrepreneur, and advocate dedicated to promoting children’s health. Her life exemplifies perseverance and the significance of pursuing one’s passions.
“Engaging in pursuits that resonate with you significantly enhances your quality of life,” explains Swaid, the driving force behind HEAL (Healthy Eating Active Living) United, an organization committed to advancing children’s wellness.
Raised on the south side of Chicago, the 54-year-old Swaid faced challenges and hardships early in life. Following her parents’ divorce, she and her two older brothers relocated with their mother to their grandfather’s home.
“My grandfather championed farm-to-table principles, meaning we enjoyed natural foods during our upbringing,” she reflects. “We were also very active outdoors as children.” This upbringing directly inspired the establishment of HEAL United.
Speeding through challenges
On the other hand, her father reinvented himself in Florida, where he launched a jet ski rental business, providing the opportunity for Swaid and her brothers to work during summers.
“We would push the boundaries with the equipment whenever we had the chance,” recounts Swaid. At just 13, she began competing in a jet ski race, which caught the eye of a team manager, leading her to an amateur racing career that culminated in her first championship win two years later.
In 1989, after completing high school early, she entered her first professional race in California and emerged victorious. “It was a remarkable surprise to everyone, including me,” she admits.
Over the span of her decade-long career, Swaid attained six world championships, becoming the most successful female racer in the sport’s history.
“While I celebrated victories, I also faced significant setbacks and losses,” she acknowledges. “Yet, some of the most difficult experiences turned into profound lessons.”
Championing children’s health
Upon concluding her professional racing career, Swaid ventured into new territories, including volunteering with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, where she focused on jet ski and boating safety advocacy. “It was an enlightening experience that reinforced my commitment to giving back and supporting others,” she notes.
Moving to Alabama with her husband sparked Swaid’s desire to create something meaningful amid alarming obesity rates among children. This motivation led to the establishment of HEAL United, aiming to promote healthy lifestyle practices among youth.
As an integral part of the approach, HEAL incorporated scientific methods into its curriculum. Each child received a heart rate monitor that provided valuable feedback on their exercise intensity.
“The kids were immediately fascinated by the heart rate monitors,” Swaid remarks. “They eagerly ran and checked their heart rates, competing to lower them after exercise.”
Initially engaging 10 schools and focusing on nine-year-olds, HEAL United has grown to impact over 45,000 students across more than 200 K-to-12 schools in Alabama today.
Swaid emphasizes that the lessons imparted by HEAL United are applicable throughout life, enabling individuals to continue indulging in their passions as they age.
“I love the thought of jet skiing alongside my boys, and having goals to train for keeps me motivated,” she shares.
Embracing aging
Swaid remains committed to personal growth and wellness, not only through HEAL but also via her venture, Checkered Flag Living LLC (CFL), through which she shares her narratives of resilience.
CFL emerged from Swaid’s personal adversities, including the loss of her mother in 2020. “Losing her made me realize how much I depended on her presence,” she admits. “Grief is an ongoing process for me.”
This profound loss was accompanied by the passing of her father and racing mentor, leaving her feeling disconnected and devoid of happiness. “It was as if I had lost my spark,” shares Swaid, humorously noting that her middle name is Joy. “I struggled significantly to emerge from that dark period.”
“Therapy taught me that confronting pain is essential,” she explains. “Navigating through it requires bravery and the support of loved ones.”
As she re-establishes her identity, Swaid encourages others to embrace their unique strengths, whether it involves event planning, baking, or lending an empathetic ear.
“Finding avenues to share your talents is fundamental because that is when you truly come alive,” she advises.
This article was originally featured in the May 2025 edition of Intomodel magazine.
