Local ER nurse participates in Annual Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim
Not many people would consider jumping off a perfectly good boat into the water of the San Francisco Bay but, that is exactly what Lindy Regan, AHMC ED RN has been training for since 2019. On September 25th, Lindy joined 579 swimmers for the Annual Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim. Finishing 3rd in her age group (45-49), she recounts that the greatest challenges were the swells and the big, burly guys who seemed to be throwing their arms and legs in all directions.
“I trained in Big River so I didn’t have experience with the swells. I was also surprised about how much warmer the bay is than the river.” Lindy has grown accustomed to the cold water, even calling it therapeutic. She loves open water swimming; no chlorine, no flip turning, and getting out in nature. “As we are swimming, seals follow us and their heads pop up from time to time. I also love seeing the Herons on the riverbank.”
Sometimes it was hard to make time for her practice swims with overtime and extra shifts but, Lindy says it has been key to her well-being over the last two years. “Having a training mindset was such a great motivator for me to stay active and get outdoors. It was something I was doing just for me and I have never slept better.”
Lindy gives thanks to her biggest cheerleader, Anita West who supported her with signs, decorations, and encouragement. “I am so happy that I stepped out of my comfort zone and connected to an activity that I now love so much. I have made great friends and feel that I have a purpose to keep healthy and strong.”
Lindy didn’t have any formal swim training but has always had a desire to swim. “Anytime I drive across a body of water I want to get out and swim across it.” She looks forward to swimming from Alcatraz again next year and hopes that her family can be on a boat as well, cheering her on and celebrating with her at the finish.
She wants to let everyone know that it is never too late to find your passion. “I didn’t have confidence in my 30’s to do something like this.” A nurse for 3 years now, Lindy has been with AHMC for 6 years working in registration, with the ambulance, and now in the ED. “I’m living a great later half!”