I became an ISR Instructor in 2005 after my daughter completed the program at 18 months. I was so inspired by her abilities that I decided to join the organization myself. I wanted to share this gift with every child possible, and join the mission of “Not One More Child Drowns.”
Growing up in Florida (I was born and raised in Jupiter, FL), water was unavoidable. I grew up going to the beach and boating, and actually had a near-drowning incident myself in the ocean at age 8. This experience is another reason I saw the importance of ISR. It gives families the peace of mind so they can enjoy the water and not be so fearful.
After graduating from the University of Florida, I moved to Tampa, and once again was in a community surrounded with water. I raised my 2 children at the beach, boating, and swimming in the Tampa Bay area. The skills ISR gave them allowed our family the freedom to play and also be safe around the water. After 25 years in South Tampa, I am now living across the bridge in downtown St. Pete. I still teach in South Tampa, but have added in St. Pete and parts of Pinellas. As an empty nester 22 years later, both my babies off to college, I enjoy my free time in and around the water paddle boarding, boating, and at the beach. I still love every day of the ‘work’ I do spreading ISR’s life-saving skills to as many families I can reach.
With the drownings that often occur in Florida, there is still an urgent need to teach as many children as possible ISR’s Self-Rescue® skills. ISR’s mission is to see that “Not One More Child Drowns.” Every year I look forward to working toward that goal. Hearing countless survival stories from my families confirms having these skills save lives. I enjoy watching my students gain confidence in the water as they become skilled. Even after 22 years, my students amaze me every day! Thank you for putting your trust in me.