As a child, Centennial Pool in Summerside became McNeill’s second home. After finishing Red Cross swimming lessons at age 11, she took lifeguarding courses that would lead to a career managing that pool for 42 years. Her 34-kilometre English Channel swim from England to France was completed two years after an equally challenging 35-kilometre swim across Northumberland Strait from Cape Tormentine, New Brunswick, to Summerside.
“Over the years, I have taught tens of thousands of children Red Cross swimming and I loved it,” said McNeill. “I continue to swim for fitness now and when people are in the pool and ask for help, I always volunteer my time.”
That event and other close calls in the pool have been her inspiration even after retiring as pool manager to continue to teach Red Cross First Aid to others in her community.
“Water Safety and First Aid are skills that everyone can learn,” says McNeill, “and something that everyone can benefit from.”
Learn more about Red Cross swimming and water safety courses.
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