Peaks to Portland, A Swim for Kids

When I was 8 years old, my family was picnicking at a small lake near San Jose,  I was in the water and was doing a little dog-paddle in the “shallow” part.  As I stepped to find  my footing, I couldn’t and I was in deeper water.  I started to drown.  Apparently my mom plucked me out of the water.  Did you know that drowning is the leading cause of death in ages 1-4, and that rates of drowning are highest in the Indigenous (me) and Black populations?  I finally learned to swim at age 43. Having known how “not to drown” wasn’t good enough anymore. All of the funds that I raise by swimming the Peaks to Portland swim  go directly towards the Y's vital programs that promote healthy growth and development for all, including basic swimming and water safety skills for children.  Also, here’s to improving diversity in the sport of swimming!