Torny has been with South Fraser SAR for a little over 5 years now. She is a GSTL, a MIT on the rope rescue team, and a Director at large on our Board of Directors.
Why did you join SAR?
I was looking for a way to give back to my community while helping others. I think it’s a bonus that I get to do a variety of outdoors activities that I enjoy at the same time.
How has SAR impacted your life?
A number of sleepless nights… In all seriousness though, I’m happy to have found a way to volunteer that fits so well with my personality and interests. What I didn’t expect to get out of this was the bonds I have formed throughout the years. I consider the team to be an extension of my family and have made so many wonderful friends over the years. Because of that I’ve also had the opportunity to partake in a lot of fun adventures.
What do you do outside of SAR?
I enjoy a variety of outdoors activities year-round. Some favourites include backpacking, kayaking, snowboarding, and rock climbing. Outside of this and volunteering I work as a registered nurse. I suppose I’m drawn to helping others.
What is the scariest/most thrilling thing you’ve ever done for fun?
I’m not sure if it’s the scariest/most thrilling thing I’ve done for fun, but learning to white water kayak comes to mind. A couple other favourite experiences include canoeing the Bowron Lakes circuit with my husband and those we’ve met from this team as well as kayaking in the fjords of Norway.
Any final words?
SAR has opened many doors for me, from making lifelong friends to learning new skills and having the opportunity to go on new adventures.