Summer 2022, Matthieu Bonin attempted a 350km swim around the largest freshwater island in the world to raise funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis.
But when it comes to the Great Lakes, even the best laid plans can go awry. On Day 3 of his journey, dangerously cold water temperatures along the shores of Wikwemikong sent Matt into a mild state of hypothermia. The decision was made to rest, reassess, regroup and restart from a safer location. It was tough to give up on the original dream, but when the waters speak, you listen.
Matt completed his journey from a much warmer Meldrum Bay to Harbor Vue Marina on July 17, 2022.
#notdefeatedjustdifferent
Updates from the water...
Meet Matt
My name is Matthieu Bonin. This July 2022 I will swim 350km in Lake Huron around Manitoulin Island.
Why?! Why would I dedicate my summer to swim in this cold, dangerous, turbulent and unpredictable water. I am swimming to raise funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis research.
I swim to honor the memory of my Aunt Claire Poirier who passed away from this illness.
I swim to bring hope to the people who are suffering from this illness, and to their loved ones. With my courage, I want to highlight theirs.
I swim with the hope that one day it will lead to a cure. Believing something is possible is the first step in achieving it.
If someone who could not swim 50m and who was out of shape can be the first to swim 350km around Manitoulin island, then why not a cure for M.S.?
Thank you for your generous support!
Words of Encouragement
Swimming around Manitoulin Island is no small feat. Matt is going to need all the karma, support, encouragement, good vibes, mantras, and kudos he can get, and here is where you can drop it.