05/19/2026
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month. Today, we honor Adrienn’s memory by sharing her story of strength, courage, and resilience as told by her twin sister 💛
“Adrienn Kovacs’ story is one of strength, passion, resilience, and love. At just 14 years old, Adrienn touched countless lives through her determination in the pool, her kindness toward others, and the courage she showed during the hardest battle of her life.
Adrienn was a freshman in high school and a proud member of the Sussex County YMCA Swordfish swim team family. From the moment she joined the team in 2022, it was clear Adrienn was special. She brought energy everywhere she went and had a way of making people feel included and inspired.
In the pool, Adrienn was fierce. Breaststroke became her signature event, and her dedication helped her earn top finishes at major championship meets. She still holds the Swordfish girls 11–12 short course 200 breaststroke record.
In May 2025, Adrienn was diagnosed with DIPG, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Through it all, she continued to show incredible courage and refused to let her diagnosis define her. Outside of swimming, Adrienn loved art and pottery, played saxophone in the school band, and was a proud member of both the Junior National Honor Society and National Junior Art Honor Society.
On January 22, 2026, Adrienn passed away peacefully after a courageous nine-month battle with DIPG.
Adrienn taught those around her how to fight with courage, love fully, and never lose hope. Her legacy will forever live on in the lives she touched.” 🤍
