Remembering Bonnie and the Lessons She Taught
On Monday, I wrote about a scary incident that happened involving a swimmer named Bonnie at the Mission Viejo meet I attended on Sunday. While swimming the 1500 Freestyle, she suffered a stroke. Bystanders on deck performed CPR on her until the paramedics arrived, who then worked for quite some time, delivering shocks to her heart and reviving her. Though it was not certain her condition when the ambulance left for the hospital, an hour later, the meet announcer informed us all that she was talking and awake. So we breathed a sigh of relief and left the meet hopeful that things were looking up.
Today though, I am so sad to report that Bonnie has passed away. This is such a loss to the swimming community; especially to SPMA and Mission Viejo, her home team. She will certainly be missed and remembered.
In the midst of this difficult time, I think it is so important to remember how inspirational Bonnie was. Here was a woman, who at age 66, was doing what she loved. Not only was she out there training and competing, she was determined to get better, swim faster, and make the most of improving on this talent of hers. My coach, Ahelee, said that she often emailed her asking for distance sets and wanting advice on ladder strategies. I mean, how awesome is THAT??!!
At an age when many people slow down, she was turning it up a notch and going big! At the time she suffered the stroke, was swimming the 1500 meter Freestyle. That's a MILE race. A MILE!! It's always hard to find comfort during times such as these, however, I do believe that it’s possible to find solace knowing that she was doing what she loved. She wasn't waiting for "someday" to come - she was out there giving it her all and loving the adventure.
Though I had seen her at many swim meets, I had only briefly talked to Bonnie a few times; but I will always remember her and be grateful for the lesson that she showed me and so many others...to find what you enjoy in life and embrace it. Be enthusiastic and passionate for whatever you love. Live each day to the fullest and don’t wait.
Thanks for rocking the water, Bonnie. We will miss you.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at 6:22PM
Reader Comments (11)
Thank you for writing about Bonnie today Jinxi. How special this is and I know she would appreciate your words so much. She was such a grateful human being - sweet, caring and so inspired.
I do believe she would have become one of your devoted friends. You both share the open heart that can be rare, but possible.
Lots of love...
Wow, how sad. But I'm glad you posted this. She sounds like an amazing woman.
Even though she is gone, she will obviously keep on inspiring people.
Cheers for Bonnie!
Super nice tribute Jinxi. I didn't have to know Bonnie to be inspired by her.
Australia calling.This is the most inspiring uplifting read today.A lot of cranky Frankies on my side today.Chow for now.
Wow Jinxi - I am sorry for Bonnie and her families loss, but what a nice way to positively remember her and keep us motivated. You and Ahelee are great!
Jinxi I am so sorry for Bonnie's family's loss ...but grateful to have been given the chance to know that no matter what age ...do what you love and love what you do. love ya tons xo
Oh Jinxi, how awful! I'm so sorry to hear about Bonnie. I'm sure she lived a beautiful life and the insights she has left behind (do what you love) are invaluable. I hope the rest of your week goes better!
What a lovely tribute Jinxi. I am sure Bonnie would be honored to know that she is in your thoughts and by your words she continues to inspire.
xoxo
Wow! Thank you so much. I shared your blog with my Dad.
We would tell her that she only had one speed while swimming, it didn't matter if it was 100 or 1500. so she figured why not just swim the 1500. I remember flipping the lap cards during one of her 1500 events and being so proud that she could swim that many laps. Her cardiac arrest was not ... created by swimming and the doctors said it could of happened at any time or any place, so I know she passed doing something she truly loved.
Keep swimming and thanks again for your thoughts.
What an amazing insight to share. It is always inspirational for me to read stories about people who embrace competition, drive, and passion to such a significant degree. The mere idea of swimming a mile would stop most people in their tracks, and you hold up an example of a woman with the strength and drive to accomplish it in her 60s. Its sad to hear of such a bright light leaving this world, but we can only hope that her energy is still at work within the universe.
I GUESS YOU COULD SAY SHE DID THE GREATEST LAP OF EVER, SWAM RIGHT INTO HEAVEN. SHE'LL BE MIISSED.