Swimming with Special Needs
Who doesn’t love to swim?
It’s probably the second best activity on the planet. It requires planning and precautions, but it’s a family favorite.
Most people grab their bathing suit and towel and head to the nearest swim hole. Here are some extra things I bring:
- Swim briefs
- Extra towels: 3 to protect my wheelchair from getting too wet (in addition to my waterproof pads), 1 to lay down where I am changed, 1 to dry off
- Special life vest
- Mom or dad (or someone better if they are properly trained)
We usually swim at the Rec Center where our first stop is a family changing room. If we are lucky, one of the two accessible rooms are open. We understand when people without accessibility needs use them, because they probably need it more than me (sarcasm), and probably didn’t see the discrete signage.
Look at this awesome changing table in the accessible family changing room.
Unfortunately, we are usually stuck using one of the toddler-sized tables, since many able-bodied people seem to prefer the accessible rooms too.
Changing me is best done by 2 people, usually mom and dad.
After I am changed, dad usually carries me to the pool stairs and uses buoyancy to help get my life vest on in the shallow. This day I am trying out a new life vest and floaty collar that mom found on Amazon. This setup cost about $80, while a replacement special needs PFD (mine is wearing out) costs about $700. Dad hopes it works, because he is pretty cheap.
Here’s what all this looks like.
It’s go time. I spend most of my time in lazy river, but I also enjoy the rec pool and adult swim areas. I also use the jacuzzi, but that makes me very sleepy, so I do that at the very end.
I usually see friends there doing swim lessons, physical therapy, or just enjoying themselves like me.
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I love reading your blog! The comment about your dad made me laugh! Love you sweet girl!
Thanks for sharing your swim adventure! Your dad may have a bit of a ‘tool’ vibe, but you definitely look like an outstanding swimmer. Keep up the fantastic work and enjoy making waves!
Wonderful!
Please educate me. Aren’t all pools required to have handicapped accessible chair lifts. Does Sara prefer floating more freely?
hey Terri! Great to hear from you. Indeed the Durango Rec Center has a chair lift. We tried it and failed a couple of times. It just doesn’t have enough support to make it easier than carrying her in and out. Thanks for reading Sara’s blog.
You’re a much better swimmer than me! If the water dips below 110, and the jets aren’t working, and my wine glass is empty, I’m out! Glad you see you enjoying the pool!