 04/04/2021
I arrived in Cleveland, Ohio around lunch time.
I remember being disappointed that it wasn’t warmer in Cleveland.
I attended dinner at Cecilia Duer’s home.
I met fellow boot campers.
I also met others involved in the production.
I became nervous after hearing that Lake Erie was filled with ice.
The dinner was a wonderful treat, but the hazing was less than desirable.
Many asked “why did you volunteer”. I wanted a free
trip and my boss asked me.
The liability forms didn’t help my anxiety!!!
04/05/2021
The fear of the unknown forced me to ask myself: What have I gotten
myself into.
I didn’t really know what to expect.
The staff was tight lipped about what I was going to experience.
Backing out was not an option. There was too much at stake. I
realized that boot camp was a big deal. I didn’t want to
let anyone down.
I dreaded the cold water, but it seemed that the staff had their
act together. I felt that they were ready for anything.
The amount of emergency personnel was comforting and scary at
the same time.
I was very well taken care of.
The water temperature was higher than the researchers hoped. I
know it’s selfish, but I was thrilled. Thank God!!!
It was still cold. The shock from entering the water was tremendous.
I made the mistake of letting my head go underwater. I ingested
a lot of water. I was finished before I got started.
I swam until I couldn’t any longer.
I eventually hyperventilated. Not fun!!
04/05/2021
I dreaded entering the water again. This time I knew what I was
getting into.
I wasn’t scared this time, but I dreaded it.
The weather was awful. I will never forget that wind.
I tried to jump in without letting my head go under. I failed
miserably. I knew to utilize the first minute getting my breath
back, but I got in too big of a hurry.
The current of the river was rough. I swam with all I had, but
I couldn’t gain any ground.
I made sure my rescue swimmer was nearby. I was willing to experience
swim failure as long as he was close.
I wondered how deep the river was versus the bay.
I was very glad to get into the hot tub. I don’t even usually
like them, but this was different.
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