Bridging Words and Wellness Blog Contributor: Linh Huynh
Who you are.
I am a proud Calgarian who was gifted an extraordinary opportunity – passage into Canada. As a boat person refugee from Vietnam, I know the struggles it takes to make it in life. My family settled in southern Alberta in 1980. I took all the life lessons of my family’s journey, all the resilience and fortitude and poured that into an incredible running career. I completed marathons in Antarctica and the North Pole. After conquering the cold, I decided to challenge myself with heat in the form of the 4 Deserts – a series of 250 km ultramarathons in 4 deserts of the world. I became the first Canadian woman to complete the series and the 8th woman in history to do so in one calendar year, thereby making it a 4 Deserts Grand Slam.
Who I am to you.
Wakefield is a force of nature, a whirlwind personified. I met him as a massage client. I was so deep in grief from the passing of a beloved partner. From the moment he walked into the room, it felt like two old friends meeting. Laughing and chatting. He has a powerful way with words, a built-in stereo system of wisdom, humor, and compassion. I have never laughed AND cried during a session before. We remained in touch throughout the years.
Why you did this.
My partner and I decided to set up our home for short term rental for travellers visiting our city. I knew that I wanted to create a space for people to relax and recharge. But also, for the guests to have a special connection with Calgary. It was important that the space reflects the spirit of our city. I reached out to Wakefield. And this beautiful little piece of art was born. A local photography / graphic designer, Johanna Hung, photographed the iconic Peace Bridge, and from that photo designed the image for Wakefield’s poetry.