Mylène Paquette

« I’m getting my head shaved for several reasons. I’m doing it for all those inspiring cancer-stricken children I met while working at hospital. Getting one’s head shaved is different for women than it is for men. That’s why it’s so important for me to set an example for my daughter.»

Mylène Paquette made her mark on history by becoming the first person in America to paddle across the North Atlantic Ocean alone. This exceptional achievement also brought her face to face with herself: a woman of great perseverance who does not shrink before any challenge. This 44-year-old patient-care-attendant-turned-transoceanic-rower is also a mother, public speaker and author who approaches life and new projects with daring and curiosity.

The Logical Next Step

For 10 years, the stellar rower was a dedicated patient care attendant at CHU Sainte-Justine. In the summer of 2008, a conversation with a sadly now deceased young cancer patient changed her life. After that meeting, Mylène set herself the goal to become the first North American to paddle across the North Atlantic Ocean alone. Still buoyed by this incredible feat; joining the Audacieuses felt like the natural next step for Mylène.

“Being in contact with sick children and their families for years can only spur you to get involved. It felt logical to take on the Challenge in their honour. I had a colleague at hospital who did it every year, and I thought she was so gutsy. I wanted to dare to follow her lead. So, the idea has been germinating in my mind for a while now.”

Working at hospital, she saw firsthand how devastating a childhood cancer diagnosis can be for families. She felt worry, disarray, and insecurity permeate the hospital’s corridors. But she also realized the vital role Leucan play in the daily lives of families.

“I know how badly a family is affected when a child is diagnosed with cancer. I’ve seen parents nearly panic with worry, feeling like the rug was being pulled out from under them. But I’ve also seen the positive impact of Leucan’s services; truly. At ground level, there was music therapy, a wig service, fun outings for children, coffee breaks and respite services for parents. Leucan is there to support families through the long journey to recovery or, in some sad cases, to the end.”

Setting an Example for her Daughter

Getting one’s head shaved is a concrete action that raises many questions, especially for a woman. Mylène is already a role model for many people—an example of courage, determination, and strength. She agreed to take on the Challenge to set an example for everyone in Quebec but also for the two most important people in her life.

“I’m getting my head shaved for several reasons. I’m doing it for all those inspiring cancer-stricken children I met while working at hospital. Another big motivating factor is showing my two kids that there are moments in life when you have to be daring. Getting one’s head shaved is different for women than it is for men. That’s why it’s so important for me to set an example for my daughter.”

A love-hate relationship is the best way to describe Mylène’s relationship with her hair—a feeling shared by many women.

“It’s like none of us ever has the hair she wants. All the women I know who have thick and wavy hair wish they could have fine and straight hair, and vice versa. Knowing that my hair will be history in March, I find myself having fun with it. I’m going to try all sorts of things until the big day.”

Daring to Believe in your Dreams

Very few people would have the courage and spirit to take their biggest fear and transform it into a life goal, a career. But determined, passionate, and stubborn Mylène and her heart of gold dared to follow her wildest dreams. It’s this happy blend of courage, boldness, and intuition that guided her through her transatlantic crossing.

“I think courage is equal parts fear and information. It means forging ahead, even knowing the risks. To be daring, you need courage, energy, and a little bit of youth naivety. While this is the general recipe, I think your personality has a lot to do with it, too. Maybe I continue to dare at 44 because I still feel young or perhaps it’s an innate part of me. Brave or not, daring or not, you have to follow your intuition. That’s what has brought me here, today.”

An Inspiring and Memorable Crossing

Over her five years of training for the adventure, she and her team worked on various technical aspects of the endeavour, including her fear of water. While she was striving to make her dream come true, Mylène inspired many people unknowingly.

“In August 2021, more than eight years after my voyage, a woman came up to me and said, ‘My daughter had a fear of flying that prevented her from travelling. Your project galvanized her. Thanks to you, she confronted her fear, took off for a trip around the world, and has yet to come back.’ It’s great to know that my own experience inspired and influenced others in a positive way.”

A true team player, Mylène loves to surround herself with motivated people just like she will with this new project. “We’re all women from different backgrounds. I look forward to getting to know them and to experience the Challenge