Friends, this past October, I was invited to join THE OPENWATER WOMEN'S OUTRIGGER CANOE TEAM! 

Since October, I've been training with the team for "The Wild Buffalo Relay" a 32-mile Catalina Channel Crossing from Catalina to Newport Beach on April 12th as a part of Team OpenWater!

This event supports the mission of OpenWater and aims to raise money in support of the health and wellness of veterans, first responders, and their families, like Kane and me.

Kane and I have benefitted from this organization's efforts and the generosity of its donors for years. Kane has his own stories, but as for me, I can tell you that being a part of this women's team has already been profoundly transformational for me. 

When I was approached with the opportunity to join the team, I didn't think I would be able to overcome my own mental limitations. Early mornings, cold water, facing fears, and CARDIO were things that I actively avoided, but I committed to showing up for myself and my team. As a result of being a part of this supportive group of women, I have seen myself overcome the limitations that kept me stuck for so long. I have grown so much in my self-confidence that I actually CAN do hard things! This experience has changed my future trajectory for the better and I'm SO freaking proud of myself!

Thank you, OpenWater and donors for this amazing gift of believing in myself. Through your program you have faciliated healing and hope and I'm so very grateful. 

You can learn more about the organization here: beopenwater.org.

I have set a goal to raise $1,500 and I invite you to join me by donating today. Thank you for supporting me, this mission, and this community!