Four years after her first swim across Kootenay Lake, 14-year-old Lily Nay of Kaslo is set to swim again, but this year she’s pushing herself even further.
Lily, who has Down syndrome, is known in her community as Lily of the Lake. She plans to swim four kilometres from Schroeder Creek Resort and back on Aug. 29.
Lily completed her first crossing at 10 years old, becoming the youngest person — neurotypical or not — to achieve the feat.
“What we’re talking about here is breaking records and breaking barriers,” said her mother, Fiona Nay.
“It’s a huge accomplishment that shows her incredible determination and drive. It’s not just about the distance or the swim itself, it’s about showing herself and anyone watching that no obstacle is too big when you put your mind to it.”
Lily has been swimming since before she could walk. Her first swim across Kootenay Lake four years ago was about breaking barriers — not just for Lily, but for other children who may not always receive the same opportunities to shine.
“We organized this swim as a way for her to challenge herself and show the community what she is capable of. As a young lady with Down syndrome, we wanted to create an opportunity where she could inspire others to push past their own limits,” explained Fiona.
This year’s challenge
This year, Lily made the decision to double her swim: four kilometres across and back — the longest distance she’s ever attempted.
Her support worker, Kathleen, will be at her side the entire way to keep her inspired and encouraged.
“It’ll show how much she’s grown — not just physically, but also as a person — and it’s her way of making an even bigger impact in the community. With Kathleen by her side, Lily is proving that with the right encouragement, incredible things really can happen. We’re just so proud of her.”
Fiona said Lily’s dedication goes beyond the water. She trains year-round through a mix of yoga, circuit training, cardio, hiking, weightlifting, and weekly karate classes.
“Her training efforts just shows just how fiercely determined and passionate she is.”
A goal with a purpose
The swim serves a bigger purpose, as Lily aims to raise $10,000 to support neurodivergent children in her community.
The family has been stockpiling the funds raised over the last four years — so far, they’ve raised $6,000, including $1,000 this year alone.
Once the $10,000 goal is reached, Fiona said the family plans to ask the community how the funds should be spent and where they could have the greatest local impact.
“We want to be able to support the community in its greatest areas of need. We’re planning to engage the community and ask where they would like to see the funds go — making sure we can create opportunities for all children in Kaslo.”
Community support
The swim will begin at 11 a.m. on August 29 from the beach at Schroeder Creek Resort.
Fiona expressed her appreciation for Lily’s sponsors: Hartech Automotive, Schroeder Creek Resort, and Jones Boys Boats, which is providing a boat to accompany Lily for safety.
“We’ve just been incredibly fortunate to have amazing support from Lily’s community over the years. Everybody has been so generous, and it’s heartwarming, the belief everyone has in Lily’s journey,” said Fiona.
“It shows how much the community rallies around each other to make something special happen. So with everyone’s help, we’re really confident that we can reach that $10,000 goal this year and do something real, impactful, and meaningful right here at home.”
For the Nays, it’s not just about achieving her fundraising goal — it’s about showing up for people like Lily.
“It’s also about showing up in person and cheering her on, as well as sharing her story and spreading the word. At the end of the day, the more we can all rally together, the more we’ll show Lily and other neurodiverse children that they’re supported and loved.”
You can support Lily’s efforts by showing up and cheering her on, or by donating to her cause. Donations can be made via e-transfer to [email protected], or, for Kootenay Credit Union members, by transferring funds to account #1710896.
“She’s not nervous at all. She’s much braver than me, I can’t even swim,” added Fiona.
“I’m just in awe of her abilities.”
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