Lauren enjoys playing sports and outdoor activities, such as hiking, gardening, canoeing, and camping. However, Lauren’s fair skin means they are more prone to sunburn and heatstroke in extreme heat, with a larger vulnerability to sunburn. They have had heat stroke several times over the past few years and experience nausea, stomach pains, dizziness, and overall discomfort when exposed to extreme heat and wildfire smoke, all of which hinder their ability to work outdoors and participate in outdoor activities crucial to their health and well-being.  

Lauren traditionally fishes with their father on the South Saskatchewan River, which is also a primary source of drinking water for their family. However, fishing and their ability to access the river have been increasingly difficult for Lauren due to low river levels. Entire sections of the river have dried up, making it difficult to canoe on the river due to the low water levels. Growing up in an agricultural community, Lauren understands the importance of protecting local water resources. They are currently completing a degree in biology with an emphasis on fieldwork, and work as a field research assistant every summer.

Extreme weather events have disrupted their ability to attend school and work, trapped them inside of their home, caused power outages, and damaged their family’s property. Extreme cold and abrupt temperature changes cause Lauren extreme physical pain. Lauren’s anxiety is heightened by their worries about the worsening effects of climate change. They find joy spending time in nature with their partner and creating art that reflects their favorite organisms.