“As Diane Struble completed her swim in 1958, she inspired a four-year-old girl who was facing with courage her own struggle to overcome challenges of living with polio. Sixty years later, in 2018, Louise Rourke was joined by Bridget Simpson in a two-person relay to swim the length of the lake. This epic 32-mile “Swim to End Polio” raised over $120,000 for polio eradication. Seeing the struggles of young children like Louise has challenged Rotarians to take on polio eradication as a global project. The dedication and the determination of people like Louise motivates Rotarians today to not give up until our goal is reached.”
—Michael K. McGovern, Rotary International PolioPlus Committee Chair
“Louise’s book brings to life her remarkable journey and success in overcoming adversity. It is a moving and personal story of her deep appreciation of Lake George. This is truly an inspiration and pleasure to read.”
—Kitty Rooney, lifelong Lake George resident, Lake George Historical Association Trustee
“This is a book about memories and mission. It is an inspiring, heart-warming, motivating memoir of the purposeful path that Louise Rourke took from being stricken with polio as a young child to becoming the Queen of the Queen of American Lakes. Jump in the water with Louise in this swimmingly touching story.”
—Dr. Joel Goodman, founder and CEO of The HUMOR Project, Inc. in Saratoga Springs, NY
Louise Beckerle Rourke is a polio survivor from six months of age. With her right leg paralyzed, she is a lifetime swimmer of Lake George. Louise is a retired teacher and school social worker who lives with her husband John in Ticonderoga, New York. The author is donating all proceeds from the sale of this book to the Rotary International End Polio Campaign.
