After losing her job and facing other struggles in her life, a Florida woman returned home Friday to conquer a lifetime goal of swimming the length of Irondequoit Bay. She did so while hitting the reset button on her life.

Jody Wesgate says she hit an all time low when she lost her job and was out of work for 21 months. During that time, she faced several medical issues and enrolled in graduate school. She says it was during that time she reflected and thought about children who face life or death medical issues. That's when Jody contacted the Make-A-Wish Foundation to organize a fundraiser for swimming the length of Irondequoit Bay.

"It's not about being mandated to do it, but to do it from your heart, I think that's the key. If we all just step up in the community and help others I think we'll be better off and that's kind of what I'm hoping and I'm hoping, that these kids know that they're not alone. Whoever gets their wish that it gives them encouragement and through all of the struggles that they have, even a few minutes to laugh and smile, and that gives you the strength to keep going. And I hope it gives them the strength to fight whatever you have to fight and hopefully survive," said Jody Wesgate.

"I'm hoping, the money that she is raising is great, but I've also become, she's shared her story with me so I've become involved in her personal triumph, so today I think will be a big win for Jody," said Mary Jones, Rochester Regional Director of Make-A-Wish Foundation.

So far, Jody has raised nearly $5,000. She hoping to add an additional $2,500 to that, which would pay for an entire trip. Jody was accompanied on her swim Friday by a friend. The entire swim takes about four hours.