heart2swim

TV interview about TI & fitness swimming

2010-06-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a nice interview about how efficiency through TI paves the way for the best fitness swimming experience!

http://www.mycarolinatoday.com/2010/06/swimming-for-exercise-the-right-way/

2010-06-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

Below is an email from a recent participant in a TI workshop:
______________

This is Chuck Holder from the workshop May 29 and 30. I swam yesterday for the first time since the workshop and am excited about the improvements. I have been drilling and working on technique a bit since the class, but no actual swimming until yesterday. I did a 500 in 9:30, which was a best for me.

What's great though is the ease I used and the way I felt when I finished. I felt like I had not done anything and that I could have continued for a mile. My heart rate was low and so was my breathing. My previous best 500 was about 10 min, but after doing so, I was about to pass out and was completely gassed. To feel like I did yesterday at the finish for my old swimming style would have resulted in about a 12 min. 500.

I am very excited about the future and know that more improvement is to come. I was worried about not swimming since the class and only drilling with a 1500 swim leg of a triathlon coming up this Sunday. I wanted to do some swimming to ensure that I have not lost any fitness. I did about 2000 total and was amazed that I felt better than I have ever felt swimming after close to two weeks with out swimming laps.

Prior to the class, I was looking to TI as a last resort. I had about decided I was stuck where I was as a poor swimmer, and that I was not going to get any better. I now feel like I have the knowledge and tools to go forward.

Thank you for your help, Chuck Holder (Georgia)

Reflections from Alcatraz

2010-05-13T17:34:00.000-07:00

Wow, what an experience. I am still absorbing the reality that I swam in the Escape from Alcatraz! It was the most challenging swim I've completed to date, even borders on an "extreme" swim. It is rewarding to be the first heart transplant recipient to swim the Escape. Thanks to everyone who helped make it possible!

Here are some thoughts post-escape:

1. Wetsuits have limited benefits

Yes, I wore a full wetsuit in this race. TI founder, Terry Laughlin, is known to never wear one, regardless of the temperature. He's not the only one, a TI swimmer who lives in San Francisco, swims 6 days a week in the Bay w/o a wetsuit. But, for me, when you're talking 55 degree water...right.

This is the first time I've worn a full wetsuit, having donned a sleeveless in lake swims. It is now crystal clear to me that the extra buoyancy that so many triathletes crave from their Blue Seventy, is a significant barrier to feeling the water. I found myself frequently through the 1.5 mile swim not feeling my patient catch out front, leading to difficulty in engaging core drive for propulsion.

TI really emphasizes swimming through the water, not on top of it. What a difference. Neoprene actually inhibits a swimmer's capacity to swim efficiently. Fish swim through the H2O, not on the surface, why shouldn't we? A good question.

Therefore, if the water is cold enough, bring me my Vortex LJ. If frigid cold like at Alcatraz, my Nineteen Tsunami will do the trick. Last week, I swam in Falls Lake at 74 degrees w/o a wetsuit, and it was a piece of cake. Hopefully, the cold water experience will enhance my tolerance and ability to swim well in cooler temps.

Ideally, I'll just take the water and TI. Yet, the wetsuits stay in the closet.

2. Becoming a "finisher" is worth the sacrifice.

Everyone who competed at the Escape received an Alcatraz medal, proudly worn by the 1800 competitors after finishing. Engraved on the back of the medal is the word, "finisher." Awesome word.

I had heard how big an event the Escape was, but could not truly appreciate the gravity of the race til I was there. Triathletes were there from 30 different countries, and no telling how many states. I was fortunate to be invited to swim on a relay, which was sponsored by IMG, the company who owns the race. Many athletes had to wait several years for the privilege to participate, and many people traveled from one of 30 different countries. The financial sacrifice was not minimal.

While times are important for any athlete, whether a personal best or Hunter Kemper's winning time of sub 2 hrs (sick!), finishing rules the day. For me, I was pleased w/ my time of 31:48, yet take more pride in knowing I achieved the goal. Being the first heart transplant recipient to successfully swim the Escape from Alcatraz really makes all the cost of preparing--open water training and races, anxiety & time away from home--worth it.

What are you planning to "finish" this season? No matter how small the goal, be an achiever and finish strong!

2010-05-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

Alcatraz pics

2010-05-13T17:06:00.001-07:00

2010-04-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

Flew safely into OAK airport yesterday, and have been going non-stop since I got here. On the way home from the airport, saw many kiteboarders out in the water, which was pretty cool. Ray Velasco's parents had us over for dinner, and surprisingly enough, good ole comfort food dinner like back home. Finished the day checking out the view from UC Berkely.

Today, I was taken on a serious tour of San Francisco, and it was amazing! Fisherman's wharf, sea lions, Golden Gate Bridge, Presidio, Ghiardeli chocolates, trolleys and cable cars, etc. Very very impressive and beautiful. Will bring lots of pics. We swam in Aquatic park, to get used to the mid-50s temp, and some waves. It was a decent swim, not losing too much breath and getting warm enough to keep going. Though Ray left me behind, it has helped my confidence for Sunday. When coming out of the water, I jogged a short ways to prepare for the 1/2 mile run to the transition from the water's edge. Fish (snapper) for dinner and gift shopping.

The Sports Basement was the place for one of many pre-race meetings, getting advice and many questions answered. Well worth the time. The store is a triathlete's dream! Now I'm back at the house and will hit the hay soon. It has been fun sharing w/ many locals and fellow Escapees that I am proudly swimming on the World Transplant Team. Being a heart tx recipient has its advantages, one of which is the ability to impress some of the toughest athletes on the planet.

One day til takeoff

2010-04-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

OK, I've prepped as best as I could. Broke in the new wetsuit up at Falls Lake on Sunday, in windy conditions. I figured if I can swim into the current against the wind, I'll manage the river-like Alcatraz swim. Big issue for me is the cold water, brrrr!

I will arrive tomorrow afternoon, then swim on Friday at Aquatic Park as prep for Sunday's swim. Lots of race meetings, strategy sessions, and networking to do. I am excited and nervous at the same time. There is a fine line between them.

Here's two pics from the event.

Preparing for Alcatraz--Overcoming Anxiety

2010-04-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Anxiety. 7 letters, enormous implications for open water swimming. It seems to me swimmers at any level may encounter issues w/ this emotion. I plan to address this in more detail in a later post. For now, just how it plays into my swim at Alcatraz.

I am an anxious person, admittedly. When pursuing a new goal, the heat gets turned up so to speak. I had a great deal of anxiety last year at the World Tx Games, especially before my first race, the 400 m freestyle. Being on the other side of the world, competing w/ the best transplant athletes on the planet, while representing our country, big deal. As I have entered the world of open water swimming, a different form of anxiety arises.

For me, the Alcatraz represents pushing my limits farther than I "think" I should. Why would I want to swim in mid-50s water w/ current and chop for over 1 mile w/ 1800 other swimmers? The pack can be crazy, I could lose my breath, get dizzy, my heart takes forever to raise its rate for what my body needs, etc. Yet, the nonsense of it makes the most sense. Why do it? b/c I can. A man decided before he died that he wanted his heart to be given to someone who would die w/o it. He chose to give life, so it is my obligation, and delight, to live life.

Since the decision is made, and not worth dwelling on anymore, how to overcome anxiety. Well, good preparation is the first step. I swam a 1 mile race at Beaverdam 2 weeks ago, at 68 degrees, then swam off HWY 98 w/o a wetsuit in 66 degrees. Then, today in 67 degrees at Beaverdam. I purchased a full wetsuit, a Nineteen Tsunami, and broke it in this afternoon. I've been talking to others who have done the swim, and read articles on how to successfully escape.

I also have a plan on what to focus on in my swim. I have been aware of some technique areas that seem to be more work than they should when I've swum open water. Core rotation, arm recovery early, and utilizing a 2 beat kick, to name a few. After I jump off the ferry, I will get several deep breaths, before proceeding w/ freestyle. I've also committed myself to enjoying the swim, my goal to avoid the temptation to compare myself w/ faster swimmers and better athletes. And, I plan to stop to do a few moments of breaststroke, and enjoy the view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Denial is considered the way not to overcome anxiety. However, since the swim is next Sunday, I don't have time to worry over the sharks! What is a shark, anyway?

Preparing for Alcatraz as a Heart Recipient

2010-04-18T05:43:00.001-07:00

One of the issues as a heart transplant recipient w/ exercise and competition is denervation, the cutting off of a nerve supply. What this means is that my brain is unable to communicate to my heart to increase my rate in anticipation of physical activity. For example, if you are about to climb a set of stairs, your heart increases its rate knowing the demand for increased blood flow is forthcoming. For me, the increase in heart rate is delayed, since the nerves around my heart were cut when it was removed. The new heart went in, but those nerves do not re-attach. Therefore, my heart gets the message to pick up the pace after I have climbed that set of stairs, b/c the muscles have been screaming for help. This caused breathlessness at the top and some time for my rate to be on par w/ my physical needs.

This has been one of unique challenges I've faced each time I have competed in swimming. In a sprint race, I attempt to get my rate up before I get on the starting block, then just go for it. After the hitting the wall, I am really panting, while the officials are telling me to get out of the pool for the next race. The pic above tells the story.

So, when swimming for endurance, I feel better later in the race, and the first leg is usually a chore. Or, a better word is a stressful experience! Muscles ache, out of breath, anxiety increasing...yet knowing it will get better if I can keep going.

The key for my oen water swims--Know and respect my body's limit & swim through it!!!through it!

Preparing for Alcatraz

2010-04-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I am swimming in a triathon relay in the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon in San Francisco, www.escapefromalcatraztriathlon.com. This is a 1.5 mile swim in mid-50s water, w/ a good chance of some chop, as well. Two-time heart recipient, Bill Wohl, offered me the privilege of leading off World Transplant Team #1. Bill, along w/ Ray Velasco, played a key role in my joining Team USA at the 2009 World Tx Games in Australia last year. The significance of this event cannot be understated, so I am recommitting myself to regular blogging on this race.

While I never stated my goals this year, they include swimming open water rather than competitive pool racing, such as Masters. Last year in OZ, I got a huge dose of sprint racing, and it was awesome, even scary. However, my heart longs to achieve in a new venue, and I believe it relates to my role as a certified coach for TI swimming. I spend so much time training folks for open water, that I feel driven to enter the fray, or pack. It only makes good business sense, too :-)

The first step to completing the Alcatraz swim was to race in the 5280 at Beaverdam yesterday. This one mile swim had 59 participants, racing in 68 degree water rounding buoys in Falls Lake. I am pleased w/ my results, 23rd overall, 3rd in my age group, and feeling stronger in the 2nd half than the first. The last part is thanks to TI. Time of 28 min, 9 sec.

What I am taking from the swim is the belief that I can swim the 1.5 across the SF bay in colder water than I've ever swum in. Yesterday was colder than ever before, so it can be done again! Regarding technique, I often found myself not kicking, instead of effectively utilizing a 2 beat kick. I also need to practice sighting, as I veered to the right a time or two, or five. My arm recovery, head position, and tracks felt right on.

Heart2swim is going to Escape from Alcatraz!

2010-03-31T07:52:00.001-07:00

Greetings TI swimmers,

I trust this email finds you well, and ready for the tri season to get in gear. First, I want to share that I have been invited to join a triathlon relay at the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon on May 2, in San Francisco. I will be swimming on one of two World Transplant Teams, which are comprised solely of organ transplant recipients, coordinated by heart recipient, Bill Wohl. You can learn more about his involvement w/ professional athletics and transplantation at http://escape2008logblog.blogspot.com/,

Obviously, this will be a challenging race for me, a 1.5 mile swim in cold water w/ a multitude of swimmers, followed by a run to the first transition. I can say w/o reservation that TI swimming is what is making this possible for me. In addition, I relish the opportunity to display the success of transplantation and share the message that over 100,000 people are on the waiting list for a life-saving organ in the U.S. This July will be my 5th year post-transplant.

I welcome your support, encouragement and tips for a successful race, so please don't hesitate to email or call. If you have interest in providing any practical support, my biggest needs are airfare, a full body wetsuit, and basic travel costs. Our relay entry fee has been donated to the Bill Wohl Foundation. I can offer more details on how to help when you contact me.

This will lead to one significant change, rescheduling the Easy Freestyle Workshop in Charlotte, NC, on May 2. The future date has yet to be determined. You can stay current on all clinics being offerered, both Basic and Advanced, at www.fsseries.com.

Please keep me posted on your swimming progress. Never give up on becoming the best swimmer you can. And remember, TI will get you there!

swimming for life,

Feb. 2010 update

2010-02-22T09:29:00.000-08:00

Greetings TI enthusiasts!

This email is to announce a new Easy Freestyle Clinic that will be offered in Charlotte on Sat, May 1, 12:30-4:30pm, at the Mecklenburg Aquatic Center. Registration will begin soon, and can be done on the FS Series site, www.fsseries.com. I will also be available for private lessons on Sunday from 1-4pm.

The EF Clinics have been going very well. The March 6th workshop is already full, so don't delay if you plan on participating in the clinic on April 3. Two EF: Advanced Clinics are on the calendar, Feb 27 and March 27, at Gypsy Divers in Raleigh. It is a great follow up to an initial exposure to TI, and focuses on advanced TI skills, such as increasing hip drive and forward propulsion, utilizing a 2 beat kick, and achieving greater endurance and SPEED!!

Please visit my website, www.heart2swim.com, which has been redone and is looking good. And, remember you can get 10% off your order from the TI site by using the discount code "coachbrian" The Easy Freestyle DVD is an exceptional resource, and offers valuable training assistance, whether before or after a TI workshop.

Private and semi-private lessons available anytime at Rex Wellness Center in Wakefield. See you at the pool!

Helping people with H2O phobias

2010-01-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

Hey folks,

This is a nice article on my work w/ swimmers w/ phobias. TI helps those struggling w/ fear of the water, too. Enjoy.

http://www.midtownraleighnews.com/111/story/1896.html

TI helps save a life!

2010-01-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

Following is a marvelous testimony to the impact TI swimming has on someone's life, in an entirely unexpected way...
__________

Hi,

I haven't been swimming since I went to the Caribbean in early Dec. and plan to start again today...but here is a great swimming lesson story.

In St. Thomas I was snorkeling and my sister was blobbing in the water floating on a "noodle" (she carries them in her suit case when we travel to water places!). A large sail boat anchored near the beach and the captain let the people either swim to shore or ride in the dingy. A couple was swimming to shore when the man realized he couldn't make it and started to go under...his wife screamed, we noticed it and I took off my snorkel gear, grabbed a noodle from my sister and swam (using TI of course) the noodle over to the couple. Everyone's day ended happy!

So, you took an 55 year old woman who didn't like to put her head in the water and didn't know how to swim, to a person who helped save someone's life...in less than 6 months!

Thanks so much! I swam everyday when my sister and I were on vacation...not so much over the holidays. Now I'm looking forward to getting my husband to water so I can show him how easy it is to swim!

Betsi
Raleigh, NC

TI Update for December

2009-12-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

Aquatic Greetings,

I trust you are already back in the pool working off your turkey, ham, green bean casserole & pumpkin pie! I definitely need another week to recover. Here's an update on what's happening with TI and my business, heart2swim.

The FS Series and I recently co-sponsored an Easy Freestyle Workshop at Gypsy Divers Aquatics, and it was a tremendous success. We were maxed out at 10 participants, motivated to learn and attain greater efficiency in their swimming, specifically for improved endurance and results in their triathons. More EF workshops will be scheduled in Raleigh, as well as other venues in other cities. The first clinic in Charlotte is set for Jan. 9th! If you are interested in setting a workshop up in your area, let me know. You can learn more about Easy Freestyle at ww.fsseries.com.

Group lessons will begin again at Rex Wellness in Wakefield starting Jan. 23. There will be two levels of TI classes offered, with the level 2 being for those who have some experience w/ TI technique. Both will last 5 weeks, and take place on Saturday at 8:30 & 9:30am. Lessons are open to members and non-members of Rex. Please call or email w/ any questions, or call Rex directly at 570-1511.

Finally, remember that private and semi-privates are always available, so don't delay in getting started in your training for the 2010 tri season. I am also coaching a Masters group at Rex Wellness, along w/ USA Triathlon Coach Tracy Doherty. Our mission is to provide a team atmosphere where each swimmer can meet their individual goals, while receiving both training and technique. T2 Masters is $10 to drop-in for members and $20 for non-members, & runs from 5:30-6:30pm on Friday. All levels of swimmers are encouraged to participate! Next practice on Friday, Dec. 4th.

Please check out my website at www.heart2swim.com, which is looking sharp w/ my new logo! Special thanks to TI swimmer, Jill Zaremba, for designing this logo, which was in my head but not on paper. Also, I am indebted to RAJE outdoors, http://rajeoutdoors.com/, owned by Robbie and Adrian Jensen, for their help w/ my site and making the video of my swim at the Lake Royale Triathlon. RAJE is a real asset to the triathlon community w/ their presence at many events and very popular "i tri" gear.

Any orders from www.totalimmersion.net using the discount code 'coachbrian' get 10% off your order, just in time for Christmas!

swimmingly,
--
Brian R. Barndt
Teaching Professional
Total Immersion Swimming
Team USA Transplant Olympian
www.totalimmersion.net
www.heart2swim.com
919/757-1230

A Soldier's Swimming Story

2009-11-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

Enjoy this well-detailed account from Matt, an Army soldier faithfully serving our country.
___________________________

I'm a soldier on Fort Bragg and I recently was given some motivation to improve my ability to swim. I found out about Total Immersion swimming, liked what I heard, and called up Brian Barndt in Raleigh, to get a couple of lessons. I convinced one of my buddies to go with me. We had two lessons from Brian last week and then this week I swam about 5 hours, 4 of them just working completely on TI drills that he taught us. I definitely made some progress and developed some competence in the first few drills but I started getting frustrated as I tried to progress to switches and other drills that lead to a full stroke. Things just weren't coming together right. So I decided to forget the drills for a while and just swim.

While I was swimming, at least tried to incorporate some of the things I had been practicing and Brian had taught us like keeping my head down, being relaxed, and swimming with my arms on a wider track. I know my form is still somewhat awful, but I was surprised to find that I did around 500m with only a 1-2 breath break in between each length. Prior to studying with Brian I would swim a lap, take a 5-10 second break on the wall and then continue. I think the furthest I had swam freestyle was about 300m. So I took a 5 min break and decided to try to swim 10 laps again. This time I placed my watch right on the edge of the pool so I could keep track of my split times. When I finished my 10 laps, the results surprised me. From the first lap to the 10th, there was not more than a 6 second difference! These were my split times: 1:26, 1:25, 1:26, 1:27, 1:27, 1:31, 1:29, 1:29, 1:27, 1:31.

So, bottom line, even though I'm only in the beginning stages of TI, my form is not yet great, and am truly a novice swimmer, I was able to swim 10 laps freestyle at a relaxed pace with only 1 to 2 breaths between each length (of course I'm breathing while I'm swimming as well) with barely a time difference between the 1st and the 10th lap. That was encouraging. Thanks, Brian!

Mid-October update

2009-10-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

Just a few things to share with you about TI swimming. For the next week, any online orders over $50 from TI at www.totalimmersion.net, will have free shipping. It may give you a good opportunity to pick up some DVD's for yourself, or a fellow swimmer for the Christmas season. Always remember to use my discount code, coachbrian, for 10% off your order!

The upcoming Easy Freestyle clinic is scheduled for Sat, Nov 21st, at Gypsy Divers in Raleigh. This 4 hr workshop will give the novice or advanced swimmer a fantastic beginning to moving w/ grace and efficiency through the water. Read more and register at www.fsseries.com

On November 6, a new Masters swim program will begin at Rex Wellness, T2 Masters. I will be coaching alongside Tracy Doherty, who is a very accomplished pool and open water swimmer, personal trainer, and USA Triathlon Coach. We have named it T2, representing "Training and Technique." It is frequently said that Masters programs offer great training, yet provide little focus on good technique. Tracy and I are committed to combing the two, making an ideal aquatic environment for training and learning! It will be a one hour practice, weekly on Fridays from 5:30-6:30pm. Details on cost will be forthcoming, but members and non-members of Rex Wellness will be able to participate. If you are interested, please notify me via email asap, which will help us w/ planning.

I recently swam in the Lake Royale triathlon at Louisburg, NC, and posted a video of my swim on Youtube. Please check it out and share w/ anyone who may be interested in what TI swimming looks like, and can accomplish. I was able to come out 2nd in my wave of 30+ swimmers. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qo6tDhQDnNQn

Finally, there has been significant interest from swimmers in the Charlotte area. If you, or someone you know, may also be interested in a TI clinic in Charlotte, please let me know. Hopefully, we will have one before the end of year.

Just keep swimming!

--
Brian R. Barndt
Teaching Professional
Total Immersion Swimming
Team USA Transplant Olympian

Men's Medley Relay Grabs Silver

2009-10-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to the youtube clip of Team USA's A Relay at the World Tx Games. Team UK blazes to a gold, and we firmly get silver. I am leading off in the backstroke leg, wearing a navy legskin suit and red cap.

Special thanks to Bill Wohl for providing this clip! Enjoy.

Brian

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Zo6N1H2r3Q

Youtube clip from Lake Royale Swim

2009-10-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a clip you can view on Youtube from my Lake Royale Triathlon,

Brian Barndt Open Water Total Immersion Swimming
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qo6tDhQDnNQ

Please remember that TI group lessons begin at Rex Health Ctr in Wakefield next Saturday, October 10 from 8:30-9:30am. There are a few spots still available, so don't delay if you'd like to participate! And, the Easy Freestyle workshop, co--sponsored by the Finish Strong Series, is set for Saturday, Nov 21, from 1-5pm at Gypsy Divers Aquatics in Raleigh. Learn more at www.fsseries.com

Happy laps!

Fall classes/clinics

2009-09-20T17:58:00.000-07:00

TI greetings,

The tri season is about to finish for 2009, and the time to plan for next year is NOW!! I am very grateful for the rapidly growing interest in TI swim technique and training, and the new opportunities that have arisen. There are two options that are now available for this fall:

1) Easy Freestyle Clinic at Gypsy Divers in Raleigh, Sat, Nov 21st from 1-5pm. This 4 hour clinic is co-sponsored by the FS Series, and will provide plenty of pool and classroom time to begin or enhance your journey to successful swimming. Learn how a balanced and efficient technique can transform your triathlon experience. Lengthen your stroke, save energy and reduce your strokes per length (SPL). Two instructors in attendance. Cost is $165 and you can register at www.fsseries.com

2) Group Classes at Rex Wellness Ctr. in Wakefield. Two levels of Total Immersion Classes will be offered starting on Sat, Oct 10, beginner and advanced TI. These are 5 weekly one hour sessions, for members and non-members of Rex Wellness, $125 for members and $175 non-members.
The format will be similar to the EF model, focusing on balance & technique, achieving some mastery of TI principles and focal point drills. TI level 1 required for entrance to TI level 2, unless approved by myself. More info can be obtained from Rex Wellness at 570-1511. No class on Halloween weekend.

And, if you or someone you know is struggling w/ anxiety and/or water phobia, Rex offers a very basic class called "Getting Your Feet Wet," which is ridiculously cheap at $64 for non-members, and very helpful. In fact, several people have swum freestyle and breastroke for the first time in their lives!!
I love teaching this class!

I will be offering a free TI clinic on the eve of the Lake Royale Triathlon on Sat, Oct 3rd from 5-5:45pm, for all registrants. Then, I will join the swimmers in the lake on race day, as a member of a tri relay, the Total Immersion Racers. You can sign up for this season finale triathlon at the FS Series site, www.fsseries.com

I hope to see you at one or more of these upcoming events!!

TI Swims the English Channel

2009-09-18T05:55:00.000-07:00

No, not me. Terry Laughlin, our accomplished founder, is currently swimming the English Channel. You can read excerpts on his experiences at www.totalimmersion.net/blog.

Save energy, work less, reach new goals...That's TI swimming!

Former Swimmer Makes Haul In Australia - University of North Carolina Wilmington Seahawks Athletics

2009-09-12T06:11:00.001-07:00

Former Swimmer Makes Haul In Australia - University of North Carolina Wilmington Seahawks Athletics

Shared via AddThis

Total Immersion News, Sept. 09

2009-09-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

Greetings TI enthusiasts,

I am glad to report I have returned safely from the Gold Coast, Australia, after an adventure-filled 10 days at the 2009 World Transplant Games. There were 1000 athletes participating in the Games, from 50 countries, all of whom have received an organ transplant. I was fortunate to swim well enough to earn 4 medals, 3 silver and 1 bronze.

The bronze in the 400 meter freestyle is a direct result of TI technique. I have never swum for distance, until I learned and practiced TI swimming. It was amazing to be in the first event of the 2 day swimming competition, and be confident that I could swim under so much pressure. I was able to stand behind the block, wait for the starter's whistle, hear my Team USA teammates cheering my name, while keeping a strategy in my mind of how to successful complete my race. Wide tracks, early arm recovery, relaxed head and hands, extend to target, exhale thru nose immediately after each breath....You get the point. Hitting the wall at 6.04 was just what I was looking for, good enough for bronze.

It was a marvelous experience, and one that I hope inspires many of you to enjoy your health to the fullest, especially in the pool and open water. Heart2swim is continuing to grow, as TI gains more traction in the Triangle area. Here are the latest developments:

I will be offering a clinic at the Lake Royale Sprint Triathlon in Louisburg, NC, on October 2, from 5-5:45pm, then be onsite at the tri on the 3rd. FS does an awesome job running their tri's as true professionals, and we are partnering up to offer some TI workshops in the future. Check out their site for updates at www.fsseries.com

Rex Wellness Ctr is also allowing me to develop their adult swim programs. There will be 2 groups offered, intermediate and advanced, starting in October. I can also provide private lessons in 30 min or 60 min increments, for members and non-members.

As this tri season is ending, your swimming shouldn't!! Consider how TI can equip you now to swim efficiently with grace, endurance & speed. Join the mulititude who have already achieved success in their swimming and triathons.

More World Game Pics

2009-09-01T13:10:00.001-07:00

Back in my home...

2009-08-30T23:19:00.000-07:00

Long day of traveling. Arrived close to midnight at RDU. Currently it is 2am.

Back in the States

2009-08-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

Landed at LAX at 7am, now in DFW, arriving in RDU at 11:20pm (i hope!)

Good be be home in USA.

Swimming results, pt II

2009-08-27T03:50:00.001-07:00

What a day at the Brisbane Aquatic Center. I am so relieved to be finished, and very content w/ my results. 100 backstroke was the big event today, and my best hope of gold, so I thought. I knew Ran, Team UK, was up for it, since he had been smoking everyone in all his races, but was unsure of the rest of the field. I was in lane 4 w/ the outer lanes my primary concern. I had a good first leg of the 50, and saw Ran in the far lane turning just ahead of me. My plan was to build up to finish hard and overtake him. I really went all out and struggled to the finish, but it was a good finish. Unfortunately, Ran was already done and standing up, having absolutely swam his personal best and setting a new world record. My time was 1.24, and was good enough for a silver. Bronze was 1.30

I was in the finals for the 50 breaststroke, but totally ran out of gas. By about the mid-point, I wanted to go home and get my "bankie." I finished for a soggy 6th place, but not disappointed. The number of competitors in the 40s age group was very , and every event was full of medal contenders. Nothing was free. I have to say that as much as I wanted to win a gold, the healthy competition and bantering about w/ guys from all over the globe was worth all the energy to get here. A historic event in my life.

Jim Gill and Kim Estep from Team NC were absolutely blazing fast, each winning multiple golds and setting world records. Our state team has much of which to be proud. The meet was full of children, youth and adults swimming for life at an international level. How? Because transplantation works, and it works amazingly well.

Give life, be an organ and tissue donor.

Finally...Swimming results

2009-08-26T03:04:00.001-07:00

This will be short, since I am exhausted

400 free - Bronze - 6.04
50 backstroke - Silver - 37.71 (beat bronze by .01)
200 Men's Medley - Silver

I am very pleased w/ the results, and left everything I had in the pool. More details later..

Tuesday recap

2009-08-25T03:33:00.001-07:00

Today was an emotional rollercoaster, for sure. I accompanied the cycling team to their time trial event, and boring would be the last word to describe it. at the outset, it was obvious that the local organizers were in over their heads in trying to manage the race. There were no timing chips used, and one volunteer was responsible for counting each of the 100 riders laps, then signaling to finish.

There was quite the dust-up, including someone from the judicially committee coming to try to calm the angry crowd. Protests and appeals are imminent. Many of those who were given medals were deserving, but there were definitely 2-3 riders who had no business wearing any bling! The worst example is a male who won a medal who only completed 3 of 4 laps.
I spite of the poor organization, I enjoyed myself and learned a good bit about cycling. It was hot, record Australia hot! Don't they know how much I hate the heat. It is supposed to be cool here.

Swimming starts tomorrow, 400 meters, 100 breast, 50 back and the medley relay. At this time, I am swimming the back leg in the men's A medley relay. More pics to see...

Monday PM update

2009-08-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, the Opening Ceremonies were absolutely magnificent!! The entertainment was stunning, singers, dancers, instruments & speeches. The pre-ceremony waiting time was not so magnicifent, 2 hrs or so, first for our Team USA picture then into the ceremonies. Seeing all of the other 50 country's flags flying at the same time was inspiring.

During the waiting period, I was able to visit other countries' team members, often exchanging pins and taking pics. A memorable moment was when a 9 yr old Japanese boy approached me to swap stuff. He gave me a paper Ninja star, like an Origami-type deal. Several recipients from Team Hong Kong were delightful, especially one who was enamored w/ a super-tacky "Party-city" patriotic flashing necklace.

Tomorrow, I will cheer for our cycling team in their Time Trial race. The team is well-organized and very fast, so I am looking forward to being a spectator & helping out. Yesterday, I practiced in a 50 meter pool, focusing on freestyle for the better part of my session. Team UK was also practicing, and are a big team. It is obvious they have come to the World Games to win, and there's significant chatter about who will win the relays. Trash-talking not in the open, yet.

I've attached some pics from my visit to a wildlife sanctuary this afternoon.

Up early this am

2009-08-22T11:29:00.000-07:00

Well, my 2nd night's sleep is following the same pattern as many others, worse than the first. Went to bed later at 11pm, then up at 4am. My roommate is the captain of the cycling team, and they were all in here last night talking about the course and strategy and the like. Cool stuff.

Itinerary for today:
Team meeting at 6am (daily)
Swim practice at 7am
Breakfast/beach fellowship at 8:30/9am
Team pics at 1:30pm
Opening Ceremonies at 2pm

Also, my alma mater, UNCW, has done an article on the Tx Games at www.uncwsports.com. Check it out.

Some pics are up. Enjoy...more to come

2009-08-21T21:09:00.001-07:00

Day 2 update

2009-08-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, some coherence has returned to my foggy brain and tired body. I just came from the Team USA meeting, meeting over 80 transplant athletes from all over the country, their loved ones, donor families, and living donors, for a total team of 164! A very pumped up team, btw.

I was able to sleep from 9:30pm to 5:45 am today (Saturday), though staying up til nighttime was a challenge. It was recommended to me by many people to get on the OZ schedule asap, to recover well from the monster trip on a monster 747 w/ 2 levels. First class was on top, in case you are wondering.

I enjoyed some Vietnamese chicken rice noodle soup last night, eating outside w/ fellow team members. I am on the 22nd floor in a corner room, w/ a view of the ocean and the strip, including hotels, lakes, shopping centers, and a casino, all beautifully lighted up at night. Someone has to suffer in a room, like this, why not me?

Hopefully some pics will be up later tonight! Special thanks to all my supporter!

I am officially in Australia!

2009-08-20T22:33:00.000-07:00

Well, this will be short, since I am completely incoherent, confused and out of sync after that mammoth trip. Let's just say I am safely here in the hotel in one piece. The Gold Coast is beautiful!

Currently, it is Friday at 3:30pm. More to come...

4 days left...almost there

2009-08-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

Well, 4 days left til liftoff to Aus. Wow, is this really happening?! Yes, it is, and I am happy to report that I feel prepared. I did a few laps and drills this morning, after teaching groups at Rex Wellness. Just feeling good and staying healthy. That's the goal. Stay healthy.

For transplant recipients, as well as anyone on immunosuppressants, extra caution is required to reduce risk of infection and rejection. That alertness, for some fear & paranoia, usually peaks at such a time as this, prior to a major life event. To further prevent illness now and in Australia, I've purchased some face masks, and have started a flu prevention medication, Tamiflu.

There are still many errands to run, laundry to be done, packing, praying, etc... By Wednesday am, I'll be ready. For those of you who are praying people, please consider praying for the health & safety of all Team USA athletes now, during and after the Games. Two more team members have had to withdraw due to accident and/or illness.

How am I feeling?

2009-08-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

I have been asked this question twice in the last 2 days. My initial response was, I feel good. Are you ready? Yes, I am. For me, that is a good sign, since my reputation is not one of cup is half-full, Mr. positive, be happy, love my life, nothing gets me down...

Truth is, I do feel pretty well, as far as preparing for the Games. Yesterday was my last swim workout prior to departue in 6 days! I did some 50 yd sprints, as well as additional easy yardage and TI stroke technique drills. My heart rate was maxing a little higher than usual, and I wasn't feeling too weirded out by the increased rate. A good sign. When I hit the weirding out phase when exercising, breaking down is not far behind. I am committed to resting sufficiently and staying healthy til next Wednesday.

Big Day at Rachel's school!!!

2009-08-13T12:41:00.001-07:00

What an honor for me today, being the recipient of such kindness and support from my daughter's 3rd grade class. Ms. Sadler's Shining Stars blessed me as soon as I entered the classroom, all holding up pictures they drew for me, and wearing their red, white & blue. Then, I saw the balloons, the cake, and was given a beautifully laminarted journal book, full of pictures and letters from the kids. I was touched, to say the least.

If that doesn't help me prepare to swim my best, nothing will!!!!! Special thanks to Akemi Sadler, my awesome daughter, Rachel, and her patriotic and encouraging class.

12 days...is this really happening?

2009-08-07T18:32:00.000-07:00

What has happened since my last post? WHO issued an H1N1 virus alert for Australia, stating all the recent occurences of the "swine flu" down under. They are in peak season over there, while we are approaching ours. Obviously, as patients on immunosuppressants, extra caution is required. Lung tx's were even encouraged not to attend the Games.

As a result, I had to sign an additional waiver acknowledging I had been given fair warning about the potential flu bug/pandemic. Infectious disease at Duke also has recommended my taking an anti-viral during and after the Games. So be it. I am still going.

On a lighter note, the uniforms arrived yesterday, and they are sweet. Team USA logo is a kangaroo w/ blue & white w/ red background. Very nice. T-shirts are cool. Polo shirt is killer. Racing suit ok. Hat is good to go. Pins are on target. Swimming cap is cheap, latex not silicone, which lasts longer and reduces drag. The shorts we won't discuss. Warm up suit is good stuff. All w/ Adidas brand, which is much better than NIKE, in my humble opinion.

I have found myself in some disbelief, even denial, about the World Games becoming a reality. As a young man, I dreamed of Olympic gold in water polo, knowing it would never be possible. Yet, I remembered wishing if I had to choose the epitome of athletic glory, that was it. Olympics are not what they used to be, but as I was growing up, they were everything. Well, this may not be the fulfillment of that testerone-driven fantasy, but it comes close. And, it will have meaning that the former could never possess.

Victory is just being there, finishing the race, alive.

17 days...pressure mounts

2009-08-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe my trip to Aus is nigh, but no going back now. I have had to admit to myself and others recently that I have overdone it, maxed out, pushed the limit, etc. After teaching at Rex Wellness last Saturday, the 25th, Caroline and I traveled to Chesapeake, VA. A new TI client assembled a workshop for me to lead for about 10 triathletes, many being members of the charity, Team In Training.

So, after 4 hrs of driving, I led a 3 hr session in a neighborhood pool, in the hhhhhhhhhoooooootttttt sun. After a late breakfast at Cracker Barrel w/ my bride, I was whisked off to the second session at a lake. The lake was ideally situated at the home of Karen Wuertz, DDS, and was great for an open water venue. This was my first time leading an open water clinic, and it was a great experience! It was very gratifying to lead the pack across the lake and back, total of 3/4 mile. I was blessed to see the improvement. Notably, Karen's 12 yr old son, Jason, swam the entire distance in freestyle, no breaststroke. This was a first for him, and his stroke was smooth, graceful and efficient. Nice.

Back to my confession. I returned late Sunday night, then proceeded to do a normal week, putting in another heavy week of yardage. Not too bright. During a workout at 6am on Thurs, I was hurting, and sloooowwww. There's a certain kind of tired I occasionally get, when I hit the wall. My term for it is "transplant tired." This condition is characterized by denying the truth that my body has undergone a heart transplant, and then behave like a 25 yr old strappping, ripped, studley beefcake of a man, who can leap tall buildings, fight in the Octagon, and train w/ Michael Phelps. The result, a good old fashioned anxiety attack. If anything can put me in my place, it is this event. A common occurrence in my sick years, and a terrifying one. Needless to say, I have dialed it down, and embraced my weakness.

I wish I could say that I am so relieved, that I am just going to the World Games to enjoy myself and live my life. This is true, to an extent, a small one. I am going to swim and compete for gold! How can I not? I was scouting the other country's teams today, and I sure found a fast backstroker who I had overlooked. Aahh!

I'll accept the results, and know I've done my best to train. Part of any victory, at whatever level on the medal podium I do stand, is to display that organ transplantation works, and amazingly well! There are over 100,000 people on the waiting list for new life in the U.S., and the supply is fatally low. Those of us who have been privileged to live miraculously on the other side of life-threatening disease, must inspire others to donate life, as well as honor everyone who has made that choice!

The Countdown is on...21 days til liftoff!

2009-07-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Well, the time is nigh, and I'm glad. As exciting as this once in a lifetime trip to Australia is, I will be relieved when it gets underway. This has ben a lot of work! Not complaining, mind you, but there's been much to keep up with, such as training, paperwork & fundraising. This email was wonderful to receive:
________________________
Dear Team USA member,

We have received all of your paper work (medical forms, insurance, passport copies, ETAs, general waiver).

Thank you,

Liz Johnson
Program Coordinator, U.S. Transplant Games
National Kidney Foundation
________________________

One item that is notable is the presence of swine flu in Australia, and of course, elsewhere. Thankfully, the authorities say all is still a go, yet any prayers for the health and safety of the 180 athletes on Team USA, are appreciated!

Triathletes Get Results with TI

2009-07-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

Here are recent comments from two triathletes I have taught recently:

"I did really well. I finished 3rd in my age group with 2 elite triathletes in front of me! I was actually 15:00 flat since you had to run out of the water about 30 yards to the mat. 71 out of 290 in th swim, 15 out of 290 on the bike, 32 out of 290 on the run. I felt really good on the swim. I concentrated on keep my upper body relaxed and moving to target position. I never felt winded or tired the entire swim. I felt really good when I exited, fresh is a good word. I had a great race and was very pleased."

from Jason Biggs of Cary, NC, FS Series Partner

"Thanks for your swimming lessons. It made a world of difference. Like you said during the coaching, "You will never swim 13:40 minutes again for that distance" You were right! I know I can still improve alot more with your instructions. I'm doing the Chapel Hill TRI again August 9 at Meadowmont? I need more tips for improving!!"

from Stephen Chappell of Wilmington, NC Retirement Planning Specialist

__________________

For so many triathletes, the swim is the least favorite leg of the tri. The comments above reflect the transformation that occurs when TI technique is implemented. More enjoyment, faster times and a new attitude!

Pre-Games Report

2009-07-21T17:39:00.000-07:00

OK, the countdown is under 30 days til Team USA flies out of LAX to Brisbane! Team captains have been selected, Jen Searl and Bill Klahn. Both are impressive athletes and great ambassadors for the cause of organ donation. They have done a fabulous job of communicating w/ all team members about the medley and free relays. Many of us are excited about the opportunity to swim on our top relays, myself included. Yet, Jen and Bill set the right tone in reminding everyone that while every individual has certains hopes and aspirations, the priority is for Team USA to be represented by the fastest team. This was good for me to hear, so if there is a faster backstroker for the medley relay, so be it. Team first.

In light of the above attempt at humility, my goal is to swim fast enough to represent Team USA in the Men's 'A' medley relay, swimming the backstroke leg. This is probably one of my biggest desires, to win gold in the medley. Therefore, I've been putting in some yardage in back, as well as tweaking my stroke w/ TI technique. I have settled on the 100 backstroke being my strongest hope for gold and a world record. High expectations, as usual. The transplant only changed me so much, sorry.

The women should have a competitive medley and free relay, and hopefully have enough for a 'B' relay. The men are loaded, and may even have three relays. Yes, we transplant recipients are grateful to be alive, have an appropriate perspective on life, enjoy every breath we take, and realize we wouldn't be here w/o the decision of another to donate life. We can also be competitive and hunger for precious medals, such as gold, silver and bronze!

Going for the Gold at the Gold Coast!!

4th yr b-day on sat

2009-07-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

It's nice to have two birthdays, one for each new birth. This Saturday is July 25, which is 4 yrs since my heart transplant. I fondly remember first meeting fellow recipients and teammates for Team NC, and being asked 'how old I was?' I naturally said 38 yrs, and was quickly corrected by 'no, how old are you.? Ohhh, I get it now, 'I am 9 months old.' Next question 'so what are you?' Well, oh, I get it, "I am a heart." Nice to meet you, Brian. I am a liver, kidney, lung, etc.

Believe it or not, I was only 10 months post-tx when I swam at the 2006 US Transplant Games in Louisville, KY, winning 4 gold medals. Now, at almost 4 yo, I am set to embark on my first overseas trip, to swim for Team USA at the World Transplant Games. This is such an honor, and I thank Almighty God above and my donor family for granting me this opportunity to fulfill a dream.

"Best $90 I've ever spent!"

2009-07-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

This was a phrase used by a new swimmer to TI. She and her husband came to Rex Wellness for a one hour semi-private lesson, which went swimmingly, of course. I believe semi's are a great way to learn TI, and keep costs down a little. For these two swimmers, they just wanted to not dread the swim in local sprint tri's. They are not alone, in wanting to enjoy the water and not just survive it.

At the end of our lesson, she wanted to try to integrate some of the focal points we had been working on. To her delight, she successfully swam the entire length of the pool w/ a greater sense of ease and efficiency. It is rewarding to help someone come to the realization that swimming well is not complicated. This couple has made a terrific start in their TI journey.

I was pleased to inform her she was now officially a 'freestyler.' Seeing the smiles of new TI swimmers is one of the best parts of the job!

Second letter to my donor family

2009-07-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

After much deliberation w/in myself, and encouragement from others, I have written another letter to my donor family. I don't know why it took my another 3 yrs to write, but it did. I am finding myself at another place wanting to know more about my donor. The first time was when I was 6 months out from TX, and was twisted up inside, trying to figure out who I was, and how to accept my new heart emotionally and mentally. I was relieved to learn that it was a 38 yo male. That brought me significant peace for a good while.

Now, I have a yearning to know a little more about my donor, as well about myself. For some reason, I have the desire to know where my heart came from, deeper South, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, etc. It makes sense that it would have to be w/in a reasonable distance from NC, since the donated heart can only travel about 4 hrs from the donor to the recipient. It is a small window for hearts, while other organs can be procured from further distances.

I will blog any news shared w/ me, maybe I'll even receive a letter from my donor family. I think I am ready to handle that possibility.

Medical waivers officially in...and off..

2009-07-08T18:41:00.000-07:00

Good news. My medical waivers came signed and approved from my Transplant cardiologist, the esteemed Dr. Joe Rogers. My transplant coordinator, Amber Sykes, faithfully helped get things in order for me. Believe me, for any recipient to live life as well as I do, you have to have a good Tx team! I've got one at Duke. Kudos to them.

So, my forms are officially on the way to Team USA headquarters in NY, completing the myriad of paperwork that has been required to make this trip possible. I am so grateful for all of the people who have helped make this goal become a reality.

Less than 50 days!!!

4th Annual Transplant Appt.

2009-07-04T06:02:00.001-07:00

Last Monday, I went to Duke for my 4th annual appt. post-tx. Hard to believe that in 3 weeks, I will have had my new heart for 4 years. How blessed I am. My labs, chest x-ray, EKG, all came back with positive results. Still waiting on my Allomap test, which is a fancy dancy blood test that measures rejection of an organ. I expect that to show now rejection, yet still wait for final result.

Unfortunately, I could not complete my treadmill stress test, due to my clinic appt. taking too long. That will be rescheduled. So, any day I should receive my signed and dated medical waivers from my cardiologist, giving me the green light to compete at the World Games. It seems somewhat laborious how much care must be taken to even participate in this competition, though understandable. We transplants are a sensitive and unpredictable cast of characters.

Once those forms are sent off to Team USA Headquarters in NY, then it is official. Training is going well, and spending some time on backstroke. Did some 100s the other day, and felt pretty strong, so the 100 back may be my best event. Also, I have trained in a 50 meter pool in Raleigh, and will continue to as much as possible. That might be a good idea, considering I will race LCM in AUS!

Smile Train Tri a success!!

2009-06-30T07:03:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the tri Sunday. The event director, Rebecca Warriner, and the Finish Strong Series were more than hospitable! I was given a valuable window of time prior to the race to share and demo TI swimming. There were approximately 125 triathletes in attendance, which was awesome.

After the clinic, or what I termed a TI "booster," I set up a table near the finish line w/ fliers, business cards, DVD's, etc... I was able to talk to a multitude of athletes, and hopefully get most of them to join the evolution of TI swimming! My wife, kids, and of course, puppy dog, were there to assist and help me look good. I apparently needed help w/ how I looked, since they told me to take off my black socks immediately!!! Yikes, the hip thing isn't working well :-)

For anyone interested, I will begin to seek more private lessons during the daytime starting the week of July 6th. Ideally, teaching at Rex Wellness in Wakefied is great, but I am available to meet you for lessons at another facility. Also, please consider registering for the first Easy Freestyle Workshop that Finish Strong and myself are sponsoring, on July 11 from 1-4 pm at Gypsy Divers. You can register at, www.fsseries.com

Swimming for life, Brian

TI at the Smile Train Triathlon in Wake Forest

2009-06-23T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official, I will offer a free 30 min. TI "booster" from 6:15-6:45am, prior to the Smile Train Tri. Rebecca Warriner of Smile Train, and FS Series, have graciously allowed me the opportunity to provide this clinic, free of charge to all 400 participants! Thanks to them.

Just last night at Rex Wellness, a friend of mine was struggling w/ his swim, as countless triathletes do, wondering if he'd make it the 250 meters required for this sprint tri on Sunday. After sharing 2-3 TI principles w/ him, and adjusting his technique, he made a dramatic improvement. This took 20 minutes. The difference is not only seen by myself as a coach, but is "felt" by the swimmer. Achieving balance in the water is the beginning of a new experience in the water. Seeing the look on a swimmer's face who feels a new sense of freedom in the water is very rewarding, and keeps me teaching TI.

For all 400 triathletes participating at the Smile Train Tri in Heritage on Sunday, June 28th, the TI cavalry is coming! Hope to see you there.

TI & Finish Strong Series

2009-06-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

Great news of a relationship w/ TI and the Finish Strong Series. I will be their preferred swimming coach, and will begin offering free clinics at some local triathlons they sponsor. First up will be the Smiles tri in the Heritage subdivision in Wake Forest on June 28.

Following these events, FSS will be sponsoring TI workshops in pools and open water. I am greatly anticipating leading these events for the good of the triathlon community. Keep posted for learning opportunities.

Anyone can swim like a fish!

Fundraising Update for World Games

2009-06-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

Finally, an update. I am sure it is hard to believe so much is going on w/ so few posts. But, the opposite seems to be true for me, the busier I am, the less I post. Should be the other way around, for sure.

First, on the fundraising aspect of my trip to the 2009 World Transplant in Australia, we have met our goal! Good news, which is due to the generosity of friends, family and a few of my TI swimming students. Thanks to all who contributed!

At the end of this month, I will have my 4th annual tranpslant evaluation, which includes a treadmill stress test. BTW, I never liked the treadmill, just needed to share that. There is always one major procedure to undergo each year, in order to ensure the heart is healthy. Odd years include a catheterization. Provided all tests and labs come back looking good, my cardiologist can sign and submit my medical waivers to the World Transplant Medical Committee. These are time sensitive documents and required for participation. I consider this my last hoop to jump through.

I have been swimming in preparation for the 400 freestyle, and will continue to do so. It is an important race in my personal swimming career, as I would like to continue in distance swimming, including open water. It is another marker for me in my TI development, as the 500 free was in April. Yet, I am also going to begin to focus specifically on my backstroke, which is likely my best opportunity for a medal, hopefully gold. At this point, I am set to swim the backstroke leg on the Men's Medley Relay. Rock-n-roll!

Motivation Station

2009-05-14T18:21:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a couple of days I have enjoyed. I was invited to speak at a conference for approx. 100 chaplains, about my heart transplant and how to effectively minister to donor families. For recipients like myself, we would not be here w/o them. When I share about my medals won swimming at the US Games, I am clear to say they are not just mine, but belong to all who helped me get where I am today. My life is a gift.

Becoming an athlete again is one of the most wonderful blessings I've received since my transplant in July 2005. Swimming is an integral part of my identity. Total Immersion has allowed that part of me to grow and explore new frontiers. Today was a great motivator for me in training for the World Games. How can you not be inspired when meeting a 12 year old girl who received a new heart from a 30 yr old man who died tragically last year? After hearing her mother talk about how she suffered and then received a life-saving transplant, it was hard not to be moved. It was awesome! Not many dry eyes today, including mine.

Why I pushed off w/ only one leg today!!

2009-05-05T17:41:00.001-07:00

OK, I'll just be up front about it. I smashed my two small toes on my left foot. They are black and blue, and pointing west, while my other three are facing east. I performed this ingenious move while stretching my legs, which I am trying to do more often to stay loose. So, my toes are taped up, according to the "buddy taping" technique I borrowed from Webmd. Yes, I pushed off the wall today on every flipturn in my 2x500 free set w/ one foot. Good thing I wasn't going for speed.

Reflecting now that it was another confirmation of the efficacy of TI stroke technique, in that the "core" is the primary mode of propulsion, not the pull and kick. It is only logical to view the body as one unit, not two units (top and bottom half). My axis is not impaired when being unable to kick forcefully, b/c a 2-beat kick is the ideal method of kicking for most swimmers. Having less to work w/ still allows me to have proper balance and body position. Therefore, I still had a good swim today, focusing on my stroke rhythm and advanced breathing skills.

Thank you for supporting me in training and traveling to the World Games from Aug 22-30, 2009. Team USA is going for gold on the Gold Coast!

Training Update

2009-04-30T18:41:00.000-07:00

Well, my coach wants me to increase my yardage for training for the big meet in August. His goal is for me to swim 10,000 yards/week, 2 days focusing on free, and the other on some strokework, back & breast. I have increased my distances and their frequency, though yesterday my legs cramped up big time during my set of 400s.

Being a transplant recipient creates the situation to push your limits to the max, while respecting where they end. Overdoing it requires longer recovery and throws off the training schedule. When that happens, recovery time is longer than non-tx folks, generally. The immunosuppressed system doesn't have the full capacity to get back up to snuff. That is probably what happened yesterday, so I am going to let go of something, maybe some work. It is time to being more focused on being fully prepared to go for the gold on the Gold Coast!

Thank you to those who have contributed so far! I am getting closer to the goal to make the trip!! It is wonderful to have many friends and supporters for this pursuit and opportunity to display the miracle of organ transplantation.

WTG pt 2

2009-04-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Things are falling into place for Australia. I have registered, got some paperwork together, made doctor appts, obtained a coach, and chosen my swimming events. At this time, I am signed up for:
400 meter freestyle
100 back
50 breast
50 back
Medley and Free relays

I am allowed 5 individual events and 2 relays. After meeting w/ my coach, Andy Martin, we decided to focus on the above listed events, and drop the 50 fly. I do want to become a flier, though it is not my strongest. Also, it is difficult to choose events that are consecutive, not knowing how close they are to each other, timewise. I may select a 5th event.

I will also be consulting with Terry Laughlin of Total Immersion Swimming, in order to implement TI technique to the maximum degree, specifically focusing on the 400 freestyle. This is no small task for me, since I never swam distance freestyle until last year, upon learning TI. Since TI has opened this door for me, it only makes sense to have the "Master Coach" help me swim to success. And, these Games will include a 50 meter Long Course pool, which is another big adjustment.

Thank you for reading my blog, and your support in spreading the news of the miracle of organ transplantation, and the urgent need for organ donors!

Supporting Organ Donation World-wide

2009-04-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

I am posting a copy of the fundraising letter for my trip to the 2009 World Transplant Games from August 22-30th. Feel free to share with anyone who may wish to join the cause to promote organ donation and help display the miracle of transplantation.
-----------
Heart Transplant Greetings!

I am writing this letter to share with you a fantastic opportunity to promote organ donation and display the success of transplantation across the world! I recently was given the honor of becoming a member of Team USA, joining other American transplant athletes to compete at the 17th World Transplant Games in Australia, from August 22-30, 2009.

The World Transplant Games have been in existence for more than 25 years. The first Transplant Olympics were held in Portsmouth in 1978-an international event with teams from France, Germany, Greece and the United States competing. Since these early beginnings with some 99 competitors, the Games have grown and now attract up to 3000 competitors from up to 70 countries. The World Transplant Games are the single biggest organ donation and transplantation awareness event in the world, and the ideal way of showing the world what a difference organ donation can make!

After receiving a life-saving heart transplant on July 25, 2005, I have been privileged to win seven gold medals and set four American records in swimming, at the 2006 and 2008 U.S. Transplant Games. It is my earnest desire to compete, and be victorious, against the best transplant athletes in the world. My purpose is to display the miracle of organ transplantation, promote the urgent need for everyone to donate life, as well as honor all the donors and donor families in the United States.

I can only accomplish this goal with your support! Would you consider making a contribution to help me “Go for the Gold at the Gold Coast?” If you would like to join this life-giving cause, you can make a non-tax deductible contribution to “Brian Barndt” and write “2009 World Games” in the memo. Details of all expenses will be available upon request. My contact information is listed below, along with the website of the 2009 World Transplant Games.

My heartfelt thanks for your support!
Brian R Barndt
325 Tillamook Drive
Wake Forest, NC 27587
919/757-1230 c
bbarndt@gmail.com
www.worldtransplantgames09.com

500 free w/ a smile :-)

2009-04-05T17:58:00.000-07:00

Well, it would seem about time for the results from my 500 free at the Masters meet at Duke. I must admit I had a significant amount of anxiety, so what's new?, about having "success" w/ this event. I tend to add a ton of pressure, and I was right on schedule at the outset of the meet. Since I am swimming for Team USA at the World Transplant Games in August, I "needed" to find another event where I hope to be competing for a medal. In February, I swam the 200 free w/ the same hopes, and it was a disaster (no need for quotes). Freestyle sprinting is out, so maybe I can go for distance.

Using my ever evolving TI technique, distance events are now an option for this transplant recipient. Smart and efficient swim strokes lead to less resistance from the water, less energy used, and greater endurance gained. To my delight, my time was better than I had expected, 6 min 51 sec. I am thrilled to have broken 7 minutes! In addition, I was able to hold pace, and not run out of gas while barfing up a lung at the finish. So, yes, distance will become a new swimming hobby w/ goals, starting w/ medaling in the 400 meter free at the Worlds, long course.

Technique holds true, since one goggle filled w/ water after my start, along w/ the straps moving too far down the back of my head. I just thought to myself, swim your stroke, don't worry about anyone else, whether swimmers in adjoining lanes or Coach Andy cheering me from the deck.

Taking a shot at the 500

2009-03-27T20:08:00.000-07:00

Well, since the 200 free didn't go as well as hoped, time to move on to the next thing, the 500 free. Not sure why I feel the need to swim this, maybe just for achievement's sake, as well as a having a fuller integration of TI technique into a distance event, enjoying efficiency, endurance and speed. While both of these objectives are true, I mostly hope to be able to identify if the 500 is a good fit for me & Team USA at the 2009 World Transplant Games in Australia this August. There is a 400m event, that may be a good opportunity to be competitive in my age group, 40-49. And, it fits nicely into the 2 day swim schedule.

Anxious, yes, but so tired that it's all good either way. I've been reminded this week of how grateful I am to simply be able to well enough to race in swim meets. 2006 was the first year of competitive swimming in 18 yrs, since my diagnosis of congestive heart failure. I don't want to forget that in the big picture, swimming a personal best is exciting, but certainly not the answer to fulfulling my purpose in the grand scheme of life. God has allowed me to experience new life in the water w/ my new heart, and I plan to swim as long as it is pumping!

Don't forget to be an organ and tissue donor. Thanks for reading.

Meet results

2009-03-02T16:07:00.000-08:00

I had a great time swimming at the Frank Clark Masters meet in Greensboro this past Saturday. I swam four individual events, and went 2 for 4. Meaning, I am pleased w/ my 50 backstroke and 50 breastroke swims, not so much the 100 back and 200 free. The 100 back would have been a decent race, since the seeded times in my heat were close to be competitive. Unfortunately, my feet slipped on the wall, resulting in no push off whatsoever from my start!!! Yes, that is about 5 seconds down the toilet. Nice.

The 200 free was a disaster. While my hope was to engage my TI technique into better endurance for this mid-distance event, this was dashed to bits on the rocks below at the 100 yd mark. Though I was thinking wide tracks, arm recovery & relaxed hands, my body was saying, "I don't think it matters, Brian." Muscles were burning something awful and I was totally gassed out, which was a surprise. In hindsight, my heart rate was either not up high enough at the outset, or the issue of deinnervation was too much an obstacle.

Deinnervation means that my transplanted heart cannot be told by my brain to speed up prior to the body's need for more oxygen, such as when beginning up a flight of stairs. This is due to the nerves being severed when my original heart was removed, and their not re-attaching with the new one. Only when the muscles demand more O2, while adrenaline is pumping, does my new heart catch up. It is a strange dynamic to work through, and timing is critical. Not an excuse, just the reality.

So, my fantasy of becoming a 200 freestyler may not be realized in this life, and that is ok. At least, I know what event not to register for at the World Games :-) I am still considering the 400 free and 200 IM, in addition to the 50 and 100 backstroke events, my best chances for a medal.

Had a great time, met some cool people, including the Executive Director of United States Masters Swimming. Back to the drawing board at Masters this Saturday.

200 Freestyle??

2009-02-26T17:42:00.001-08:00

Yes, it's true. I am going to swim the 200 yd free in a Masters meet on Saturday. Not too big a deal for most competitive swimmers, but it is for me. Reason being is I never race freestlye events, except in relays. I've always done better with strokes, particularly backstroke. Because of recent "success" in my Masters swimming utilizing TI technique, time to test the freestyle waters.

I am more excited than anxious about attempting the 200 free, which is notable since the last time I swam it competitively was in my freshman year at Monmouth College. I was the only swimmer for our team, against three beasts from Villanova. Great memories. And, since having more efficiency and less resistance in the water, I don't fear running out of air. Nice.

I am also swimming the 50 & 100 back, and 50 breastroke. We'll see what Saturday brings!

Arm Recovery and Speed

2009-02-21T15:22:00.000-08:00

As I've documented previously, I have been swimming on the Masters team at the Kerr YMCA. It seems I am continously learning how to utilize TI technique into these workouts, which run about 2250 yds. One continuous challenge for me is to maintain good body position, rhythmic breathing, and avoid returning to the old ways of pulling and kicking for propulsion.

Today was focused on freestyle, while last week was IM. Thought last week would have been exciting doing all the strokes, but negative. I attempted to swim in the fast lane and struggled just to make intervals. Today, back to lane 7, where I belong. After some 200s, Coach Andy had us swim some 50s. I really enjoyed these, since it felt like the first time I was able garner some speed utilizing my TI. I was able to lead the lane in several of the sets, and felt a genuine sense of accomplishment.

The focal point that seemed to do the trick was arm recovery, or lifting my elbow out of the water before my arm is full length by my leg. Holding skate and bringin up the elbow and spearing to target before beginning to pull on skate arm, was what enabled me to feel a sense of turnover. w/ TI strokes. I haven't been able to achieve this feeling until now. I was mindful of my SPL, and though they tended to increase when I was sprinting, they often stayed within my range, 11-13.

Good day of swimming. Hello to hip drive.

Swimming Heart

2009-02-17T04:09:00.000-08:00

This post is to share the good news that my mid-year heart transplant appointment went well. My labs were all within normal limits, and my echocardiagram revealed my heart's pumping function remains strong. This being the case, preparing for the World Transplant Games is the plan! I will continue to practice w/ the Masters at Kerr Y on Saturday am's, and begin some competition events at swim meets.

God is good.

A Beginner's Success

2009-02-06T18:41:00.000-08:00

This post includes an excerpt from one of the graduates of the January TI lessons at Kerr YMCA. She came with a very limited swimming background, including a near drowning experience as a child at a water park. Breathing was a significant concern for her at the outset, which is common for many of the adults Bridget and I teach. By the end of our six lessons, she was able to swim a full length of full stroke freestyle, utilizing advanced breathing skills! This stay-at-home mom has inspired me as an instructor, and I know her comments will inspire other swimmers, and those who want to begin swimming.

We observed her swim while we had out lessons this past Wednesday, at approximatley 7:30 pm. Of course, we cheered congrats to her.

"I only heard a little because I had my MP3 player on. The thing is wonderful for doing laps! I didn't stop until 9:00, and I felt great! I never thought I would be able to swim that long. I probably could have kept going, but decided I was getting a little tired. Thanks to you and Bridget for helping me learn a better way of swimming."
PS. "I've dropped 10 lbs so far swimming 2-3 times a week. Yay ME!"

Yay for her, and for Total Immersion!

Breakthrough TI Swim

2009-01-31T10:17:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited about the workout I enjoyed this am at Kerr Y Masters. It was a long set of 2000 yds. I joined the faster half of the group, in the slower of those two lanes. The set was 5x100s, then 4x125s, 2x250s, & 1x500 yds. I swam last of the four swimmers, maintained TI technique and balance, counted my SPL, and wasn't overly concerned with fast times. Yet, I did not fall behind, nor gas out.

By the end of the 125s, the other gents were huffing a little, yet I felt good. I swam second in the first 250, then led the second 250. It was awesome for me to lead the lane, and not be compromising my balance whatsoever, in order to maintain the pace. I continued to think over and over how fortunate I am to have just some level of mastery in TI technique, which guarantees efficiency, and produces endurance. Arm recovery, wide tracks, hip drive...and many other focal points echoing in my head.

The final part of the set was the 500, and it was the most enjoyable 500 I've swum in over 20 years! TI provides yet another breakthrough.

WORLD TRANSPLANT GAMES 2009!!

2009-01-29T07:35:00.000-08:00

I am excited to share that I have become a member of Team USA, that will compete at the World Transplant Games in Australia. The Games are August 22nd through 29th, and the team will fly out of Los Angeles on Aug. 19th, and return on Aug. 30th. I am more than thrilled to compete on an international level, and especially represent our country.

My events will be in swimming, of course, and include individuals and relays. The
50m and 100m backstroke will likely be my best events, though I may also swim butterfly, breastroke, and the IM. My hope is to also participate on the men's medley and freestlye relays.

I will need lots of support, and will have information available soon on how you can help me and Team USA compete at this elite level. Our heart's desire is to magnify the message that "Organ Transplantation Works!" There are approximately 100,000 people on transplant waiting lists nationwide, and multitudes will never make it to transplant, unless people choose to become organ and tissue donors. Those of us blessed to be given new life, desire to maximize our gifts through athletic achievement, show the urgent need for organ donation, and to honor all those who gave the precious gift of life!

Integrating TI into Masters, II

2009-01-20T11:21:00.000-08:00

During the masters workouts in which I've participated, the key has been not reverting back to traditional swim methods, when everyone else utilizes them. What has helped is the coach, Shannon York, is into TI and understands why I am not using kickboards and pull buoys. During the kick set, I got in skate position and kicked, trying not to negatively affect my balanced position.

I also do not use paddles or buoys, since they are based on a stroke cycle emphasizing pulling w/ arm strength, and not hip drive. Why not? To maintain balance and body position. The TI stroke cycle does not begin with an arm pull, rather the hip drive. Not engaging the arm muscles to pull saves energy and oxygen, while providing more efficient propulsion.

Thankfully, the coach gives me the space to continue to learn and practice TI in a Masters atmoshpere. Admittedly, it is somewhat awkwad, but a good way to engage other competitive swimmers. Several observers have commented how I make it look easy compared to other, and faster, swimmers. One comment is for every stroke I take, they take one and 1/2 strokes.

Each new step I take with TI, only serves to renew my faith in its methodolgy and practice. Thanks for reading.

Integrating TI into Masters

2009-01-03T13:47:00.000-08:00

Finally, a blog post. I will blame the holidays, like everyone else. Quickly, the second TI group finished up Dec. 20th. It was a great group, and close to max capacity. Bridget and I learned a great deal about working with such high level swimmers/triathletes. We received a fair amount of feedback, mostly positive, and will implement what we learned to make future groups at Kerr Y even more productive.

Now, the present. Today was a significant day for me, and maybe TI Raleigh. I swam with the Masters team at Kerr Y today at 7:30 am. This group consists of many swimmers from the triathlon club. I had some anxiety about getting into sets and intervals, hoping not to take away from the progress I've made using TI principles and focal point drills. I was delighted how well things integrated together, swimming close to 2000 yds. Truth be told, I fell down my icy front steps immediately after walking out the front door, and had to lighten up. Ouch. Then my car wouldn't start. Grrr. Took my wife's minivan, determined to swim. Glad I did.

I was pleased with several things. First, my workout wasn't about speed, rather using good stroke technique, and learning how to hold pace during the
6x100s, then 4x200s. My pace, not everyone else's. I swam in the C lane, slower than A or B, of course, yet was able to stay close to the B's. Now I know my ABC's. OK, not funny.

It was also rewarding to feel refreshed in the second half of our practice. This is not to say I didn't exert myself, because I did, but swimming efficiently pays huge dividends. Maintaining the same SPL was the name of the game, and I stayed right around 12. I wasn't huffing and puffing, and gasping for air. Rather, a good sense of satisfaction after knowing my body got a really nice workout.

Finally, to hear from a lifeguard that my TI stroke looks so easy and natural, is so confirming. The whole point of beginning TI swimming, before TI coaching, was to swim gracefully, smarter, and faster. And for me, as a heart transplant recipient (2005), endurance is not easily attainable. Yet, TI is making it real, and I am pumped!

The Pause

2008-12-16T16:41:00.000-08:00

We had a very productive lesson #4 this past Saturday at Kerr YMCA. The class reviewed the spearswitch, formerly called underswitch, with a focus on the pause. Where does it occur? In the periphery of the goggles next to face. Why is the pause so important? Because it allows the swimmer to mentally examine their skate position, ensuring they have proper body alignment and balance. For many of the swimmers, it was challenging to wait to spear. Rarely does an athlete naturally take the time to maximize technique by a thoughtful pause. The desire to achieve and perform can be counterproductive, at this point.

In my previous career, I was a regular public speaker. Frequently, I was encouraged to pause between significant points in my speech. Why? To ensure the first comment effectively sunk into the mind of the listener. If there's no rush to quality public speaking, there does not have to be a rush when learning and "practicing" TI focal points. Successful swimming is defined by effortless and efficient technique, and the pause is an essential tool.

Balance balance & more balance

2008-12-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

OK, so balance is the word for today. The TI group increased to nine swimmers, due to two more joining after the first lesson. Great session today. Reviewed our relaxed head position and wider tracks, as well as core body position. My goal for today was simple, skate skate skate. With nine students, I wondered if it would be difficult. Thanks to the best assistant anywhere, Bridget, it was no problem.

Skate went well, and we even got to Sweet Spot breathing. Two things really stood out to me today, and it went back to a primary focus in the first session. Laser beam. Two swimmers were struggling w/ keeping a straight bodyline and "sleek vessel," exhibited with the rolling shoulder. After thinking and thinking and thinking, I thought, well, maybe it is a simple issue of balance, so let's go back to relaxed head and laser beam. As is by magic, her shoulder didn't roll, and this swimmer gracefully moved through the water. Not only did it look better, she felt better! Yea, mindfulness is coming w/ proper body position and balance.

Interestingly enough, a student that followed her was showing a similar struggle, and my simple suggestion was "laser beam." What a concept, to use what I know helps swimmers swim efficiently. This is Kaizen Coaching for the new guy. So, while the focal points and drill change, balance remains the same. BTW, this group of students is awesome.

Lesson #1 - Find balance

2008-12-04T07:07:00.000-08:00

Finding perfect balance is not only for gymnasts, but also swimmers. Last night there were 7 swimmers for the 2nd group of TI lessons at Kerr YMCA, ranging in age from 15 to 66 yrs old, at various skill levels. From the beginner to triathlete, all expressed a desire for their swimming to be less "work." Thankfully, they came to the perfect place, TI, in the only Y in NC that offers TI instruction.

We start with how to effectively glide. This may sound unimportant, or even nitpicky, yet it is profoundly significant in achieving balance in the water. The first critical element in proper body alignment is have a relaxed head position. The Superman glide has arms outstretched as extensions of the shoulders, with the head allowing the water to hold it in place. The result, each swimmer learns that water will hold you in place when you cooperate with it, and they find themselves further from the wall than before.

Sounds simple. It is. Anyone reading can try for yourself, by relaxing your head in the water, deactivating any neck muscles, and gently stretch arms straight ahead from your shoulders (head resting b/t them). You'll have the same results as the Y swimmers, balance is found in the water with minimal effort. Balance is the beginning of the end of swimming as "work."

Kaizen coaching

2008-12-02T05:41:00.000-08:00

Since I have been successfully indoctrinated with Kaizen swimming, which keeps me continuing to learn and improve my swimming experience, it seems fitting to practice Kaizen coaching. After completing my first group of TI lessons at the Kerr YMCA, I am taking an honest appraisal of my work. I first spoke at length with my assistant instructor, Bridget, then consulted with Terry Laughlin. Below are two lessons I have learned.

First, learning TI is only the beginning to a lifetime to efficient and enjoyable swimming. During lesson #6, I found myself frustrated that my students were not easily engaging in full stroke. Part of the reason was my expectations are so high. I seem to forget how long it took me to truly "get it," 4 private lessons, one weekend workshop, many workouts full of focal points & not laps, and a week of training to become certified to coach TI. Since I grasp how much more learning I still have yet to achieve, it seems fair to allow the students adequate time for TI to be the key to their swimming. Therefore, the 6 one-hour lessons serve as the gateway to swimming utopia. My next group starts tomorrow night, with 5 swimmers registered. My goal is to provide both the awakening TI brings, as well as the tools for each swimmer to start new life in the water.

The second lesson is this, there is not substitute for good skate position. I learned this from questioning whether I should have moved through all the drills more quickly, carrying everyone to full-stroke. I shared with Terry that I was concerned I spent too much time on proper skate postion, utilizing good body control and experiencing balance in the water. He affirmed that the skate position is foundational to effective freestlye, and can be improved for years to come. There is no substitute for proper technique.

As I learned when first starting TI as a student, there is no rush. It can be a enjoyable process of learning and growing. Part of why this is such a challenge for me and innumerable swimmers, is we had learned to focus on faster and stronger swimming. Traditional swimming had us focus on the outcome, rather than the process. TI is teaching me that the results will assuredly come, and I am only required to relax, keep it simple, and enjoy the process. What a concept.

YMCA update

2008-11-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

Well, things are going swimmingly at the Kerr YMCA. Last week, I held our monthly Total Immersion Taster (clinic), which lasts 2 hrs and gives an intro to TI. It is free, since the Y is so supportive of TI programming. 12 adults attended, grasped and began using TI techniques. There were many comments like - this feels so much easier, I can't believe I never knew how to swim like this, this is more relaxed, and I swam further strokes to get across than ever!

I was delighted to observe, once again, that when any swimmer puts certain principles into practice, improvement is guaranteed. Several swimmers swam fewer strokes in 25 yds, after simple adjustments. One person went from 28 to 21 SPL, and another 24 to 19 SPL. Probably the most excited individual was a woman who has been teaching swimming her whole life, after realizing the difference TI makes.

Next TI Taster at Kerr Y is December 13, from 12:15-2:15 pm. Call 562-9622 to register.

TI progressing

2008-11-13T13:51:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to share that the inaugural group of TI lessons at the Kerr Y are doing very well! It is such fun to teach swimmers who are so eager to learn, and readily apply your instruction. Definitely good for the coach's ego. After three classes, each student has learned to find balance in the water and cooperate with gravity.

Why is this so critical? Finding balance in the water enables you to identify the ideal body position, then maintain that position as you build up to a complete stroke. Just the minor adjustment of having a relaxed head position, face down in the water, will prevent the legs from sinking. Only a light flutter kick is needed to move gracefully forward. The wrong head position, such as looking forward, will cause the legs to sink, and the instinctual reaction is to kick harder. Thus, the swimmer begins what can be called "survival swimming," and is huffin' and puffin' in less than one length.

The swimmers in this group are simply following directions, making simple adjustments, and attaining major gains. It works for any swimmer at any skill level!

The Results are Coming In...

2008-11-04T17:38:00.000-08:00

Here's a note from a swimmer who took 1 private lesson:

Brian - I am so excited. I've been swimming so much better. I know you didn't show me arms yet, but I incorported them any way and I did so many more many laps than I have ever done. I didn't want to stop swimming...

TI works. It truly does.

Y Lessons in 3 days!

2008-11-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

Currently, there are 5 swimmers registered for the Total Immersion Swim Lessons that begin this Wednesday. Ages range from 12 to over 40 yrs old. I am excited to get started, and to have such a motivated assistant, Bridget. I've also started private lessons for children at the Y, though not officially Total Immersion-based. It is amazing to witness how simple adjustments in technique transform into instant success and satisfaction for the student, whether he/she is an adult or child.
"TI likes to move it, move it..." (Madagascar 2 is coming out)

Can I swim faster with TI?

2008-10-28T16:30:00.001-07:00

This is a question I asked myself recently, after some discussion on the TI technique with others. It is certainly not new to TI, since its inception over 20 years ago, but one that requires an answer. And, frankly, was a key question from myself, when I first began private lessons with C.O.O. of Total Immersion Swimming, Kevin Sutton. Everybody wants to swim faster, especially those well past their prime, like me!

The answer is most definitely, yes, anyone can swim faster w/ TI. Why? Well, a couple of reasons. First, TI is focused on the process of effective technique, step by step. After good balance is gained through body position in the water, further steps to reduce drag can be implemented. Thus, any time you can reduce drag improves speed. Further, faster stroke and kick turnover will not necessarily give speed, if poor technique is used. And, it will certainly negatively affect a swimmer's energy level, as well as oxygenation.

The second reason to be assured speed can result from energy saving swimming w/ TI is, the fastest swimmers consistently use the fewest number of strokes per length (SPL). For example, if you Youtube some of the Olympic races, count the number of SPL for the medalists. Specifically, the legendary gold medal victory for the US Men's 4x100 meter Freestyle Relay, was won through this principle. Jason Lezak, a self-coached Olympian, swam 8 fewer SPL than his counterpart, who was leading by more than a bodylength at the start of the anchor leg. Jason swam brilliantly, and efficiently, to touch out the world record holder in his best event.

Will TI increase my speed? Yes, but not overnight. Nothing is easy. It takes time and discipline to swim smarter using the TI method, or any method that improves your technique, for that matter. Yet, the rewards are tremendous. Not only can any competitor swim faster using TI, but will come out of the water feeling better than they ever had in the past. Word.

Still Cruisin'

2008-10-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

TI is moving along. Next TI taster at the Y is Nov 15, from 12:15-2:15 pm. It is open to anyone, members and non-members, for FREE! It offers some classroom time, yet mostly pool time. The group lessons start earlier, Wed, Nov 5, and there is still space available. Register at 562-9622.

As I continue to expose others to TI instruction, it is great to watch the ripple effects and the buzz created. One of my newest students, who is also a personal trainer at the Y, took a lesson, and immediately felt the difference. She is an avid triathlete, with a great appreciation for health & fitness. In fact, I now have to train once in the gym for every time she takes a TI lesson. I've had my first workout emphasizing core muscles, and I am feeling it!

There is also a good possibility that TI programs will be offered at the new Rex Wellness in the Wakefield subdivision in North Raleigh, scheduled to open Jan 1st. This will be a state of the art wellness facility, with a 25 yd pool, as well as a warm therapy pool. What is unique about this facility is that it is medically based, and includes folks undergoing some sort of rehab. Of course, it is also offered to the community. I am very amped about the possiblility of teaching Total Immersion as a part of Rex Wellness, both private and group lessons. In 2001, Rachel was born at Rex, and one month later I underwent surgery to have a cardiac defibrillator implanted. So, you could say that Rex is close to my heart.

TI at the Y has officially begun!

2008-10-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to say that TI has officially begun as part of the aquatics program at the Kerr YMCA in North Raleigh, near Wake Forest. The first "TI taster" included a total of 6 participants, including coaches. Skills ranged from beginning to very advanced swimmers. It was rewarding to learn as an instructor to teach each technique sufficiently to varying levels of swimming ability. Great thing about TI is that regardless of how fast or slow someone is, they can improve and enhance their swimming efficiency. Yesterday was an ideal example of the difference just 2 hours can make.

Our beginner focused on appropriately getting her face in the water, then moved right into drills. She quickly learned that being shown specifically how to move through the water provides confidence and minimizes anxiety. She stated that registering for TI lessons starting Nov. 5th was officially going on her calendar!

Though the advanced student was so, shall we say, advanced already in competitive swimming, what could happen? The key is to take someone who is better (than many others) and lead them to their best. For this former NC State swimmer, there are simple principles that, when put into practice, yield positive external and internal results. The external being in fewer strokes needed to swim one length (SPL), possessing more energy internally. So, distance and open water swimming become tremendous opportunities for swimming to bring quality of life. Finally, hearing him say "I am feeling the difference," is the big reward, and what keeps us TI coaches going.

Oops, small change in plans

2008-10-16T06:07:00.000-07:00

We've had to adjust the start times for the TI lessons at they Y. All the paperwork for getting this off the ground, or in the water, has been a little cumbersome. I know, hard to believe red tape slows the process.

No worries, since the TI taster is scheduled for this Saturday from 12:15 - 2:30 pm, and already has 5 students. This will give an overall intro to the philosophy and techniques of TI, and interested swimmers can then sign up for lessons. This is really a better order for the programs, the lessons following the taster.

I also have begun scheduling more students for private lessons, so the word is getting out there. If you want to find out more or refer someone with questions, 919/757-1230 (c).

Discover & choose your inner fish - dolphin, barracuda, blue marlin, hammerhead shark, or even beta fish...since all fish swim way more efficiently than the rest of us!

Countdown 4 days til TI at the YMCA

2008-10-11T18:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I am so glad that the day is almost here. The lessons offered at the Kerr Family YMCA start this Wednesday, and will last for 3 weeks, a total of 6 lessons. Wed from 7-8 pm and Sat 2:30-3:30 pm. Next Sat the 18th is also the first TI taster from 12:15 to 2:25 pm, which resembles a clinic environment, introducing the TI philosophy and techniques. Anyone, member and non-member, is encouraged to sign up. Call 562-9622 and ask about the TI taster and/or lessons!

TI in Pensacola

2008-10-09T17:30:00.001-07:00

So, TI traveled to Pensacola, FL. Well, sort of. I went to Pensacola to perform a wedding ceremony for a good friend, and we stayed on the beach. It was tough work. Truth is, I am also an ordained minister, for anyone who didn't know already, or may even care. So, this gave me the privilege to preside over a beautiful ceremony for a fantastic couple, Mike and Mary Gifford.

While there, we had some down time, so I felt obligated to swim in the ocean. I was excited to utilize my TI skills in the open water, to see how I held up. I have always had a fear of swimming in the ocean, for a variety of reasons-lack of confidence, difficulty seeing, jellyfish, and great whites. Interestingly enough, I learned from some locals, after I swam in the ocean 2x, that sharks are common visitors to Pensacola Beach, and the adjoining bay.

So, what happened? Well, I didn't lose any limbs, thankfully. And, I had the best experience in ocean water that I can remember. I felt so much more confident swimming in the riptide, now that I'm equipped with the skills to swim effectively. Though it was challenging during the rough currents, it was gratifying to stay out there, and feel more safe and in control than I ever had. TI works.

I swam against a 10 year old?

2008-09-28T12:59:00.001-07:00

Well, I swam in another masters meet, a tiring but rewarding experience. Tiring due to the many hours spent working on my butterfly technique in the days leading up to the meet. Swimming fly was more about reaching a new goal, and increasing my ability in a weaker stroke. Normally, I would relish swimming the 50 & 100 backstroke, and place better, too. But, it's not all about winning.

The facility was exceptional, and the participants were as numerous as the sand on the seashore. Kids and adults of all ages were there, representing many local and out of town swim teams. The old folks, like me, were mixed in w/ everyone else. What a sight to see me on the starting blocks with 7 other boys, ranging in ages from 10 to 15. Not sure what place I came in the 100 fly, but got 4th in my heat for the 50. I'll find out later how I did in my age group.

I also met some great people, including many masters swimmers. One even swims at the same Y as I do. Of course, I shared about my new journey with Total Immersion with anyone willing to listen. You didn't think I went there just to swim, did you?

100 Butterfly

2008-09-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

It is always important to practice what you preach, wouldn't you say? I agree, so I am swimming the 50 and 100 yd butterfly this Saturday in a Masters swim meet at the TAC. Raleigh Swimming Association is hosting the "Sprint Shootout" meet, which begins at 11:00 am. Since I learned butterfly TI style at my teacher training, it only makes sense to try it out. Truth is, I was encouraged by others who saw me train in NY, to participate in fly events, something I've never done. So, I can say with all truth that Total Immersion has opened doors for me that were previously closed. A heart transplant patient swimming a 100 fly? Miracles exist.

Latest news on Total Immersion Raleigh

2008-09-25T17:35:00.000-07:00

Well, starting a business if a full-time job, for sure. It has been exciting exploring all the opportunities for teaching TI. I have a meeting with the owner of Inside Out Sports this week, to discuss the possibility of providing programming for his Endless Pool. This would be a terrific place to instruct triathletes, through private, semi-private & group lessons. "Easy Freestlye" workshops on Saturdays would be a big hit!

I also have an appt with the aquatics director of the Triangle Aquatics Complex (TAC) in Cary, and have plans to discuss options with Rex Wellness. These are where potential lies, but the YMCA is a sure thing. Lessons begin mid-October, and members & non-members can sign up. Kerr YMCA at 562-9622.

TI is how I roll

2008-09-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

So, here's the deal. I am set to begin as a Teaching Professional for TI Swimming. Jacked up about it? Yes! Three areas brewing at the moment:

First, the YMCA, where TI lessons will begin in October. Three week courses with two 1 hour lessons/week. One Saturday/month will include a two hour "TI taster." The taster can introduce the key principles and swimming focal points for an athlete to feel the initial benefit of TI, as well as discern if they wish to pursue futher instruction and/or workshops. The plan is to host weekend workshops at the Kerr YMCA beginning in the spring.

Secondly, I will be meeting with the owner of a local triathlete store that has an Endless Pool. We are submitting a proposal to offer programming in this unique learning environment. This is a very exciting opportunity, so will keep you all posted.

Third is private lessons. My first lesson is this Saturday with another swimmer committed to them, also. Thanks for reading.

Training Days 5-6

2008-09-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

I hope my days are right. My clock is all mixed up. Day 5 included instruction in butterfly and breastroke for me and Georgina. I felt better than ever in fly! Couldn't believe the difference in how the focal point drills let to a smoother, efficient and graceful stroke. Got lots of kudos for how it looked, and was encouraged to enter 100 & 200 yd fly races in swim meets. I have hope that may actually happen! I gave private lessons to advanced and beginning swimmers, as well as observed Terry giving them to a long-time student.

Saturday was an "Easy Freestlye Workshop." It lasts 6 hours and takes someone through the process to developing an efficient stroke. We were assistant instructors, providing a significant amount of teaching, along with the supervision of senior coaches. It was so rewarding to see the students get it, and leave with the tools and enthusiasm to pursue their passion for swimming. Things clicked for me, also, so my confidence is high in serving as an effective TI instructor.

My first private lesson is already scheduled for next Saturday in Raleigh, and I will be assisting in a weekend workshop at the end of the month. Word.

Training Day 4

2008-09-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

Whew, feels like day 34. I am dog tired. While I am mentally energized, body batteries are low. Today was a big step toward "learning on the job." Translated, I gave 3 private lessons with 3 different swimmers, in addtion to working on my focal point for the day, breathing. The students swimmers ranged from beginning skills to somewhat advanced. One was an avid kayaker and mountain runner, and another a chiropractor. I believe I learned more from them than they did from me. TI is coming to Raleigh!

Training Days 2 & 3

2008-09-10T15:09:00.001-07:00

OK, so I missed a day. So far, the training has been fantastic! We use the Total Immersion Studio, which includes 2 Endless Pools. EP generate a current that simulates open water, such as the ocean. You can adjust it from creeping along to wicked fast. When swimming full-stroke freestlye, the ideal is to set the speed which allows you to remain in place. I realize it is not only an ideal learning environment, but an exceptional place to train.

The number of intructor candidates is few, which has provided significant personal training from Total Immersion Founder and CEO (Chief Excecutive Optimist), Terry Laughlin. The most interesting person I have met is an Ironman Triathlete from South Africa, who resides in Capetown. She will oversee TI for the the entire territory of SA, after completion of training.

My excitement to begin instructing Total Immersion in NC increases each pool session!

Training Day 1

2008-09-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow is my first official day in the Total Immersion pool, but I did exercise today. In the senior community where my dad lives in the competitive game of "picke-ball." Yes, pickle-ball. It is actually my dad's baby here, since he pioneered the game's beginning in the neighborhood. PB uses about half of a tennis court, and is a combo of badmitton, table tennis, tennis, whiffleball, and a KMart blue light special. It was a grueling three games, with a total combined age of 467 yrs b/t the 4 of us. Well, that may be an exaggeration, it wasn't too grueling :-)

I visited my hometown of Haddon Heights, NJ, visiting the legendary John's Friendly Market. Nostalgia was in the air with a tavern ham, sharp cheese & lebanon bologna on an Italian roll with the works. And yes, a Philadelphia soft pretzel to go with it, and Pepsi to drink. It's not swimming, I know, but it did my heart well. But, please don't tell my cardiologist about the sandwich.

Training Day's Eve

2008-09-06T13:54:00.000-07:00

No, not at all like the movie Training Day, but maybe close. Not really. Tomorrow I fly to Philly to spend 2 nights w/ my dad and his wife, Anne, in Deptford, NJ. Then Tuesday am I'll drive to New Paltz, NY, for my TI Instructors Training. New Paltz is near Poughkeepsie, NY. Like I know where that is, either.

The days will be full of teaching in the classroom and in the pool. We will also do workshops with students under supervision. I expect to learn a lot, and be completely waterlogged by the end of the week, maybe earlier.

The good news is that I will likely assist in a TI workshop in Raleigh, NC, during the last weekend of the month. I look forward to getting the experience, as well as meeting potential students/clients in this area. Not sure which sounds more appropo. Hopefully, I can find a computer to blog on while I'm there. Thx for reading.

Looking good at the Y

2008-08-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

No, not me looking good, rather Total Immersion. I met with the Aquatics director yesterday, and TI is officially on the Aquatics Program schedule for the Fall. Sign ups will begin soon at the desk, for members and non-members. Lessons will be 2x/wk for 3 weeks, for a total of 6 lessons. Sessions are Wed from 7-8 pm, and Saturdays from 2:30-3:30 pm. In addition, one Saturday per month will include an additional clinic from 12:40-2:30. This will allow me to have some classroom time teaching the principles, followed by on hands practice in the pool.

If anyone is interested in learning more or signing up for lessons and/or the clinic, contact the Kerr Family YMCA at 562-9622. I also have access to a pool for private instruction. Remember, it is worth the effort to discover your inner fish!

Total Immersion Coaches Training on the horizon

2008-08-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

It seems like I've been talking about getting certified by Total Immersion as a teaching professional for so long! Actually, I've only been out of UNC Hospitals since July 1, but so much has happened since then.

I've been busy handing out business cards with my credentials and contact info, hopeful that the networking will bring interest and students. I have had my first person sign up, another heart recipient. Yea! I have also gotten lifeguard/CPR/First Aid certification from the Kerr YMCA. So, my "street cred, or better water cred" increases to another level. Hard to believe I got lifeguard certified 25 years after the first time.

I will start teaching TI lessons on Saturdays at the YMCA, which will hopefully bring greater interest in private lessons and TI workshops. The potential is so huge in the Triangle area, especially due to a significantly large triathlon population.

TI means Olympic-style swimming, like a mighty fish in the ocean!

Update and upcoming events

2008-08-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

New events are taking place, this week and in the near future. Significant life transition is occuring, and has been, for me and the fam. My girls returned to school today, yikes! Laura, 11, began Middle School, double yikes! Rachel, 7, started 2nd grade, can deal w/ that.

For me, I made final plans to participate in the coaches training camp, in order to become a Teaching Professional for Total Immersion Swimming. I will explain more what Total Immersion (TI) is in future posts, but suffice it to say, it is a revolutionary method of swim instruction. TI equips anyone willing to learn to swim like a fish, and enjoy the water more than ever. In short, I'll help others find their inner fish :-) In addition to its benefits in swimming, it is giving me the opportunity to make a vocation of teaching it to others. I am more than excited about this new venture.

So, the second week of September will be spent in New Paltz, NY, for one week of intense training. Upon return, I will start teaching at the Kerr Family YMCA, as well as begin private lessons and assist in swim workshops. Swimming has been one of the greatest gifts following my heart transplant, and the plan is to pursue this passion in the years ahead!

My health history (this is long overdue)

2008-08-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

I suffered congestive heart failure in 1990 at the age of 22 years old. My diagnosis was cardiomyopathy, which is a disease of the heart muscle. My heart was enlarged and weak, unable to effective provide blood to the rest of my body. The possibility of a heart transplant was discussed as the likely course of action if my condition worsened. Thankfully, my condition improved.

The cardiomyopathy was well-managed by medications and regular testing for a decade. Since I had been in atrial fibrillation since my diagnosis, two attempts to cardiovert my heart back to sinus rhythm were made. They were unsuccessful. During that time, I was able to fulfill several important goals - get married, have children, graduate from seminary, and assume my first pastorate.

A defibrillator/pacemaker was implanted in August of 2001, one month after my youngest daughter, Rachel, was born. I had experienced many episodes of tachycardia, including ventricular fibrillation on two occasions. Having a defibrillator is a blessing and a curse. It is able to save your life through shocking your heart out of a potentially fatal arrhythmia, but the shock is like being kicked in the chest by a “mad bull!” The most traumatic experience I had with my defibrillator was being shocked sixteen times in a row, while taking a walk.

In 2003, my ejection fraction plummeted, and I underwent open heart surgery at Duke University Medical Center for mitral valve repair. A device called a “corcap,” a form of netting, was also sewn around my heart, as part of a clinical trial in which I had enrolled. Its goal was to prevent my heart from enlarging further, and also reshape the heart.

That surgery was successful, and I fared well for about eighteen months. Yet, fifteen years of living with cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation had taken its toll. I had deteriorated to the point that a heart transplant was the only option. On June 9, 2005, I was placed on the waiting list to receive a new heart.

I was still able to work as a pastor at Six Forks Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC, during this time. However, it was very difficult and my effectiveness had diminished. It had gotten to where I was struggling to even go up and down my driveway to retrieve the mail.

On July 25, I received my new heart at Duke Hospital in Durham, NC. My transplant was performed by Dr. Carmelo Milano, who also conducted my mitral valve repair in 2003. I was discharged after sixteen days in the hospital. The Transplant Team at Duke has done a tremendous job of caring for all my needs and guarding my health.

It has been an awesome privilege and gift to resume activities I had been unable to perform for many years. What I am most excited about it swimming, and I eagerly anticipate the 2008 Transplant Games!

Success at the lake!!

2008-08-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

Well, believe it or not, I swam across Lake Gaston! It is hard for me to believe that after 15 years of cardiomyopathy and chronic atrial fibrillation, 2 open heart surgeries, a multitude of shocks from my defibrillator...and now 3 years after my heart transplant, I swam 1 mile across a lake! First, I thank God for the grace to achieve this goal, then to my donor family.

There were about 100 swimmers. It was a staggered start, w/ 10 swimmers on each pontoon boat to a launching platform, the jumping off point. I was on boat #5. There were several folks I recognized, some from the Kerr YMCA, and a few Masters swimmers from Durham. We began at Morningstar Marina (formerly Eaton Ferry Bridge Marina), and ended up at Watersview Restaurant on the other side. The non-motorized vessels (canoes, kayaks, paddleboats) were allowed to enter the lake after all the swimmers were in the water.

The water was murky, and the only thing I could see was my arms. I would lift up my head and tread water, or switch to breastroke, in order to keep as straight as possible. The restaurant had a bold blue roof, which was great to help mark direction. The bridge was on the right, and the Coast Guard was out in several boats, securing the area.

About halfway through the swim, I heard Caroline and the girls calling my name. What a pleasure to hear their voices. It brought some affirmation and encouragement, as I had some anxiety going on. Yes, men can have anxiety. I used all the Total Immersion Swimming techniques I could remember, and finished stronger than I was at the halfway point. So, yes, I plan to swim farther.

What I found myself thinking of during many points of the swim was my donor and his family. I do not know who he was, or what his family makeup is. I do know, he was a 38 yr old man. I still wonder what he was like. Was he funny, nice, sarcastic (like me), rich or poor? Was he a dad, brother, uncle, husband, etc? Maybe someday we will find out. I want to write another letter that Carolina Donor Services can offer to the family.

The identity of my donor is like the water today, very cloudy but refreshing, life-giving, and just what I needed today to keep going forward in life.

2 days left before the swim

2008-08-07T08:31:00.001-07:00

Well, in 2 days I will swim my first open water event at Lake Gaston. This is a significant step for me in my swimming for 2 reasons. One, it is the longest distance I will ever have swum (swam?!) continuously in my life. The longest so far has been the 1000 yd freestyle while swimming as a Seahawk for UNC Wilmingon in 1988. Yep, a while ago.

Secondly, to go into an open water (lake, ocean, waterway, etc.) race is a big deal. There are a plethora of other factors that enter the equation, currents, water temp, weather, sealife, and for me, the dreaded "germ factor!" Lakes can be notoriously dirty, yet that varies depending on the specific lake. So, for me, being immunosuppressed, it is a risk factor.

For a long time, I would not have entertained the idea of swimming open water for this reason, as well as a lack of self-confidence. I have continued to meet, and hear of, transplant recipients who are participating in open water venues. Since my heart health remains strong, I believe it is not unreasonable to move forward. In addition, for me to be an effective instructor for Total Immersion Swimming, it is important to prove its value through personal achievement. And, the truth is my confidence to attempt this is due to my improved stroke technique via Total Immersion teaching.

A friend told me many years ago that there is often a fine line between excitement and fear. I have found this to be true in many areas of my life, and it is definitely the gospel truth for the Lake Gaston swim.

What's next?

2008-08-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

Well, a few things. I am speaking at Shiloh Baptist Church tomorrow morning at 10 am. This is a dear church in Garner, NC, that a close friend of mine, Mitch Lockamy, pastors. I have shared my testimony there before, once pre-tx & once post-tx. I am looking forward to this privilege. Notably, this will be the first time I have preached since leaving the pastorate 2 yrs ago.

To swimming, I plan on participating in the Annual Lake Gaston Crossing next Saturday, Aug 9. It is a 1 mile swim across the lake for swimmers and non-motorized vessels. This is a good challenge for me, being that it will be the longest distance I have swum, as well as the first in a lake setting.

Further, it enables me to utilize the swimming techniques I have learned through Total Immersion Swimming (see link below). And, if you notice in my bio, I am scheduled to become a certified Teaching Professional for Total Immersion (TI), as of Sept 08. My goal is to begin giving private and group lessons for those wanting to learn to literally "swim like a fish." I am scheduled to begin offering TI swimming instruction at the Kerr Banks YMCA in September.

Opening Ceremonies Prayer

2008-07-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

This is a copy of the benediction I was privileged to offer at the close of the Opening Ceremony, at the 2008 Transplant Games in the DL Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh, PA:

Most Gracious and Merciful God,
Tonight, we give You thanks for the privilege to participate in the United States Transplant Games. We are thankful for the great city of Pittsburgh, that has welcomed the community and family of transplant. We ask for Your presence with us as we celebrate and honor the gift of life. May each athlete receive strength and courage, and may those who applaud their efforts experience an indescribable joy. And, Father, please bestow Your perfect peace and comfort to the donor families who have come to grieve and remember their loved ones. It is to the donor families that I pray receive the greatest blessing, for their sorrow is deeper than any joy that I, as a recipient, have been given as a result of their selfless decision to donate life. May all that happens over the next four days bring You honor and glory, and shine a bright light on the miracle and success of organ transplantation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Happy Birthday to me!!

2008-07-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am 3 yrs old today, at least in transplant yrs. Having a transplant is one way to get another day to celebrate. And, it is a big one. Interestingly enough, this morning Caroline had to take me to my family doctor, and then the ENT, for a bad allergic reaction to something I ate yesterday. It was like old times, me the patient and her the ever-supportive and able caregiver.

Last night, I was contacted by two donor family members I met at the Transplant Games, one from Team Mississippi, and the other from Team Liberty (NJ/NY). Both of these men lost a child, a son and daughter, respectively. Hearing from them reminds me that sorrow & grief exists out there for donor families, while joy and hope abound in my life today. Without the decision to donate life, recipients like me would not be alive. Caroline would be a widow with two young children, without their father.

I am 3 today, and I have gratitude in my heart. As the bumper sticker on my car reads, "God bless organ donors and their families."

Summary (cont.)

2008-07-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

Day 3 - Since Rachel was still sicky poo, we didn't want to overdo it. Yet, we managed to anyway. We spent the morning and early afternoon in an area called the Strip District. No, it's not what you are thinking! There were shops, cafes and street vendors galore. We ate in the well-known restaurant, Primany Brothers, sampling their famous sandwich with cole slaw and french fries on it. Good stuff. After such an exhausting day swimming, I was surprised I had the strength to carry Rachel on my back for many blocks.

The kids on Team NC were playing 3 on3 b-ball at the Convention Center that night, and we hoped to spectate. Caroline and Laura had cheered them on to no avail the night before. We saw some of game, after a huge hullaballoo trying to find somewhere to eat. Remember, spouses don't fight, just disagree :-)

Day 4 - Free day, and we went to Sandcastle Water Park. It was awesome, and I think I had the most fun. My dad was gracious enough to help fund the trip, so we taxied all the way there. We dropped off our stuff & swam in the wave pool, then hit the slides. I have always loved water parks, and relished the opp to exercise my nerve on the big ones. Though, Caroline and the girls would have been ok if I skipped the "Lightning Express." What a rush! And, what a climb to get up there just to go down. It was a family blast, which we needed, and we returned tired and sunburned.

Closing ceremonies tonight. Very well done, and hosted by Celebrity Ken Howard, who is also a kidney recipient. He is great, and the transplant community receives him well. This year, his donor, a Hollywood stuntwoman, was also in attendance. Music was good, but not as good as Opening Ceremonies, at least to me. Individual and team awards given, with generous applause. Team Arizona wins the team cup, deservedly so.

Day 5 - Time to go. Take shuttle to airport, check in... We were first of team to gate, so Caroline and girls were off. I was feeling a little puny, so I laid down on the seats, though unable to fit under the armrests that don't lift up. Not long after I got in this uncomfortable position, some folks sat nearby and started to chat. Turns out they were donor families from Team Connecticut, who happened to sit down for a rest on the way to their gate. Coincidence? Doubt it.

I immediately connected with a woman who has attended multiple Games, after losing her only son, Brian. What an amazing thing to listen to her story and about the illness that took Brian's life. He was 13 yrs old, and had a rare & fatal form of Muscular Distrophy. And, how humbling to be able to be an encouragement to her, just by being there. This is what the Games are all about to me.

Transplant Games in 2010 is in Madison, Wisconsin!