It’s early morning and kitties Lena and Panda are crying for their breakfast. They wake Katie from a deep sleep, which is okay because soon it’ll be time to head to the Aquatic Centre.

You see, Katie’s a medal-winning athlete who will be competing at the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games, hosted this year in Prince George from July 10 to 12. Her sport? Swimming, something she’s always loved.

“On land I have legs, but in the water I have a mermaid tail,” she says with a bright smile. “I’ve always loved the water – swimming in the river, taking a tub or practicing at the pool.”

Katie trains each day at the Comox Valley Sports and Aquatic Centre with the help of Christine, her coach.

“Swimming is hard, but I love it. I also like my coach; she’s tough, but nice.”

The Joy of Family and Friends

Now in her early 40s Katie, who lives with a developmental disability, calls Courtenay, B.C. her home. She’s very close with her family and enjoys the days she spends with her friends at Satori Lifestyle Resources. She also stays connected with friends at L’Arche Comox Valley through monthly potlucks, pub nights, cooking classes and more.

Another important part of Katie’s life is the time she spends with Janet, her support worker. “We plan healthy meals and go grocery shopping together,” Katie says. “We go for drives to places like the Royston Estuary, thrifting and we have coffee together.”

“People (and my cats) are so important to me,” she says with a bubbly smile.

Taking Full Advantage of What Life Offers

Katie works to stay healthy, but it’s not always easy. As a three-time cancer survivor, she focuses on loving life.

“I work at the Salvation Army Thrift Store, take dance classes, and classes at North Island College. I’ve studied math, computers and my favourite – sign language.

Katie is a reminder of how important it is to do what we love. “It’s going to be an exciting summer!”