Initially, getting into the cold water felt like a daunting obligation. ‘I was born and brought up in Jamaica, so I was a warm-water kid. The thought of getting into the cold water was daunting.’ Now she describes her daily winter dips as a necessity. ‘I just love the feeling of being in the water. I have to swim like crazy when I first get in. I go from cold to sort of numb, then I start to feel myself radiating heat and am so energised. It’s uplifting. It’s invigorating! It gives me a whole new perspective on the day, and on my feelings. I feel ready to tackle anything! And on top of that, I’m raising money.’
A highly sought-after agent and mother of two, deciding to swim daily for Kenzie’s Gift was a big commitment. ‘Every day is extremely busy, and every day is a challenge.’ Rather than being deterred, Linda’s refined her approach to ensure there’s always a way to get into the water. If she can’t go first thing in the morning, she has worked out how she can get from work into the sea and back to work again within an hour: dip done, funds raised! And her position at number one on the Winter Swim leaderboard retained.
Linda is unequivocal about her reasons for choosing Kenzie’s Gift, when there is growing competition amongst charities nationwide for support. ‘[Kenzie’s Gift founder and CEO] Nic is my inspiration. I haven’t experienced loss in my immediate family. But the thought of it is enough to bring me to tears. And someone who has been through what Nic has been through... if she can spend her life helping others then I have to think – what can I do?’
‘Selling a home is very much about helping people through a stressful time in their lives. My approach to it is – I'm here to help people. But I still feel like I scratch the surface of helping people. I’m forever grateful for people like Nic in the world, who prioritise helping others.
Linda not only raises funds, she works tirelessly to raise awareness for the crucial support Kenzie’s Gift provides to families. And now, as part of the Winter Swim, her team at Bayleys Devonport have been set their own challenge: dip themselves and Linda will donate on their behalf, or make their own donation. In her words: ‘it’s one or the other.’ And this drive to support the mental health of tamariki, both in and outside the office, is why Linda is such a powerful advocate for Kenzie’s Gift.
‘It’s the deep touch this support has on the lives of kiwi kids who have suffered unimaginable grief. Being able to help people who are going through that is very special... The more I have given, the more I have realised the importance of the work you’re doing.’
You can follow and support Linda’s Winter Swim campaign here.
Linda, from the team at Kenzie’s Gift and from the families we help: you are an inspiration, a champion. The warmth and determination you bring to your support of young kiwis in need is changing lives every day.
Mā te ngākau aroha koe e ārahi - Let a loving heart guide your decisions.
