Fred Mydske, a resident of Snohomish, has embraced swimming in the Snohomish River as a rehabilitation tactic for his sciatic nerve pain, a journey that began after a sports injury. He discovered the mental and physical advantages of cold water swimming, finding it to be a low-impact exercise that boosts confidence and well-being. Dr. Christopher McMullen, a sports medicine physician, corroborates his experience, highlighting the benefits of swimming for joint comfort and overall mental health, particularly when combined with nature exposure. Mydske has developed a meticulous swimming routine, entering the river at the Pilchuck Julia Landing boat launch and carefully navigating the currents.

He swims upstream for a short duration before letting the current carry him back, emphasizing safety due to the river's unpredictable nature. Despite the cold temperatures, which can be debilitating, he enjoys the process, often bringing music to enhance his experience. Mydske remains cautious of river hazards, including sea lions and submerged trees, which adds an element of excitement and risk to his swims. His story illustrates the dual benefits of physical rehabilitation and mental clarity through engaging with the natural world.