Susan Laird

Susan Laird attended Temple University, graduating in 1930. She started swimming at age 14 as therapy after developing Sydenham’s chorea (often called St. Vitus’ Dance), a neurologic disorder characterized by spasmodic jerking of the limbs and head. Laird was US Junior Champion in the 100 yard freestyle in 1926. After college she became a girls’ coach and physical education at Homestead High School near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Laird died tragically when only 25-years-old from a rare blood disorder and subsequent pneumonia.