For the 2nd year, I was invited to join OpenWater's Women's Team participating in the Wild Buffalo Relay (the Catalina Channel Crossing) as a part of Team OpenWater.

I am excited to be paddling 32 miles from Catalina Island to Newport Beach, on April 12th!

I've been training with the team since October, and 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.

My dad, my 4 uncles, and my nephew are all veterans. My father is 92 years old and he served in the Korean War; I’m his primary care taker and he’s my favorite person on the planet.
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Paddling is my way of honoring them while doing what I love. Paddling has helped me in so many ways: physically, mentally, emotionally.
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Getting out there and leaving it all out on the water is so healing, motivating & gives me so much joy.
.I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the profound impact OpenWater has on transforming lives. Through adventure, exercise, and fellowship, Team OpenWater provides me and my teammates with a safe space to share experiences, find understanding, and support each other.

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!