Water is healing. Water is life-giving.
Born and raised in Tiohtià:ke (Montreal) in the traditional territory of the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) nation, I am the daughter of two loving parents, Barbara and Richard Simmons – they have been together for over 60 years. I am blessed to have 3 incredible sisters; Laura, Robin and Valerie, and several nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
I now live in Camosack (Victoria) the traditional territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən peoples with my life partner Ray. We have been together for over 30 years. My life is enriched by his presence and the quiet moments we spend together on the water; Ray in his kayak and me swimming.
Ray and I were both child athletes and strongly connected to our families and communities. We value the natural environment, good health and community.
In 1995 I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis after two periods of temporary blindness and a range of other neuropathic challenges. My journey to living in harmony with the disease lead me to the water. It is there where I feel at peace.
Over the past several years I have had the opportunity and privilege to swim in a number of waterways on the north west coast of Turtle Island. Each swim teaches me about myself, the people and community where I swim, and the value of the water I swim in.
Each swim is part of my journey to reconciliation.
You can learn more about me at SusanSimmons.ca