Kathy Luz Herrera

Despite an abundance of timely political events, by far the biggest influence in my personal life these past few months has been Women Swimmin’. Now in its seventh year, this fundraiser for Hospicare and Palliative Care Services (HPCS) is a community swim that embraces and helps define our strengths as a community. Since I embarked on the journey to prepare and train for Women Swimmin’, I have encountered excitement, support, encouragement, and have heard dozens of stories of empowerment and success.

While exercising to strengthen my knee after surgery, I noted a friend’s dedication to swimming laps. When I asked what motivated her, she replied, “Women Swimmin’”! A few weeks later, my partner Jill and I became two of the lucky 300 women signed up to swim 1.2 miles across Cayuga Lake to raise funds for Hospicare. It’s more than a fundraiser, though. It’s a community builder, a physically fulfilling experience, and an educational opportunity. The slogan says it best: “It’s not how you swim, it’s how you live.”

To quote from (Kathy’s Women Swimmin’ Webpage): “Swimming laps at Helen Newman, Island Health and Fitness, and area State Parks has progressed to lake swimming. It’s deeply satisfying and spiritually nourishing. The lake swimming with friends and kayakers has been especially profound. I’m grateful to be part of this tremendous community swim.

This year finds me especially grateful for my health after successful knee replacement surgery in September. Gentle encouragement provided by a friend who has been part of this event since its inception has inspired me to participate in 2010.

I swim to honor the memory of my mother, Olivia C. Herrera, and my father, John J. Herrera, knowing that Hospicare would respect the wishes and honor the spirits of these giants.
I also swim in memory of Ralph Hill, who passed last year, and Peggy Amici, who recently passed. My friends and their families had the physical, emotional, and spiritual comfort that Hospicare provides. I swim to support the continuation of that mission. We are so fortunate to have Hospicare in Tompkins County!