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Go Fish!

Gale, Ben's physical therapist, started working with him in the pool one year ago.
Ben has always liked the water. He has received lessons or therapy for the past six years, with lots of recreational play in between. Ben's progress has been phenomenal over the past year - working with Gale, his physical therapist, combined with all the water work we did in the pool last summer made a difference. Endurance and confidence in the pool increased, and Ben's ability to move his body deliberately in the water is remarkable. Ben goes where he wants in the water, and if he decides he is going to chase a brother, watch out!

Gale is jumping at the bit to get Ben in the swimming event for the Special Olympics, but she, I mean, Ben will have to wait. This sport does not start until middle school. I try to tell her it is just more time for Ben to improve his stroke, but she is ready now. Gale's excitement and enthusiasm definitely drives her to push Ben. However, she makes sure he has fun and knows that having Sean and Logan as part of the session is a way to motivate Ben.

The local YMCA has been generous and kind in letting us use the pool with Ben and his therapist. We truly appreciate their support. It is pretty cool when staff stop by to see Ben at work, and today, I noticed a fellow swimmer, stop and watch Ben for quite awhile. Many have been amazed at his improvement - he has come along way from holding onto our necks for dear life.

With a life jacket on, Ben can swim the length of the pool, especially if he is racing with his brothers. This is with minimal help and only to get his legs down from the PT. He propels himself through the water using his arms and legs.

Today, Grandma and Grandpa were there to watch and he had a smile on his face the entire time.

Ben sees the stairs as a place to rest...just for a minute. Gale keeps him off his toes, so to speak!

Comments

  1. Grandpa McCallJanuary 21, 2014 at 10:10 AM

    I can attest to Ben's greatly improved movement and his rise in confidence in the water. It is so gratifying to see. His smile tells it all. A large thank you to family, therapists, and other sources of inspiration for Ben, all helping Ben to gain this confidence and resulting enjoyment. This is very beneficial for him. . . Grandpa Jerry

    ReplyDelete

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