Terri Dietz’ Marathon Swim Story
What does it mean to be a swimmer? Nonetheless a marathon swimmer?
When are labels important and when do they get in the way?
This is a question that I often ponder. Whether reading the news, in conversation with my children, my partner, or a friend – it’s interesting to observe WHEN we’re labeling things and whether that label is helping you describe something for the sake of understanding, or if you’re leaning on the label to stereotype or make generalizations about a group.
In the case of the label, “swimmer”, I can remember a time not too long ago that I didn’t consider myself a “swimmer” per se. I don’t swim everyday and I’m not paid to swim – so how does one become a “swimmer”? What do you think?
Nothing is as simple or straight forward as it seems. And it’s only when the magnitude of your accomplishments makes you question everyday problems and discomforts, and perhaps, discover a new found empathy for others, then you know you’re on the right track.
In the case of today’s guest, her pure joy and wonder in the water is contagious and despite having swam all of the Maui channels she opens with, “I’m not a swimmer”.
May we all be infected by Terri Dietz burning curiosity.
I hope you enjoy this story!
In her own words:
Meet Terri Dietz, the Founder of WYAO Hawaii Corporate Wellness. Terri is deeply committed to assisting corporate leaders in fostering high-performance teams both within and outside the workplace, employing scientifically proven wellness approaches to achieve tangible outcomes.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Terri has long been immersed in athletic endeavors. With a remarkable career as a Female Aerobic Gymnast, earning multiple national championships and international recognition, she has also enjoyed canoe paddling in Northern California and Hawaii and presently explores the challenges of open ocean channel swimming, such as the recent Molokini to Lanai crossing, a 30-mile swim.
Finding tranquility and unexplored potential in the water, Terri believes in embracing an active lifestyle for timeless well-being. Her mission is to fearlessly embody wellness, inspiring others to embark on their own paths toward vitality and fulfillment.
I have completed all of the Maui Channels, some more than once or 2x. Love doing the Summer Solstice Swim! I have completed Kaiwi Channel and looking forward to SCAR 2024.
I also serve as a feeder for many swimmers who attempt (and complete) Kaiwi Channel! I LOVE THIS! LOVE! It is an honor to be part of a swimmer’s journey in the Kaiwi Channel. A few swimmers include: Alessandra Cima, Marcia Cleveland, Sayani Das, Ted Lomika, Srikaanth Viswanathan.
