Published on 16 December 2019
Ryan and Ethan started their MACqua Education journey at just 18 months and 6 months respectively. Now, at the ages of 4 and 2 and with the support from their committed MACqua Ed Teacher Ann Mercaldi and proud parents Cliff and Wilma, they have made some real progress in the pool.
The brothers have a genetic disorder that causes issues with their nervous system, resulting results in them having low muscle tone and problems with balance and mobility.
“The swimming lessons have been fantastic for the boys, with the lessons almost like hydrotherapy” says proud dad Cliff.
“The boys found it easier to maintain balance and walk in water; while they initially resisted attempts at using a walking aid on dry land they were willing to try walk in the pool. They can now walk unassisted in the pool, and out of the water they roam around quite quickly in their walkers”.
MACqua Ed teacher Ann has the brothers perform exercises in the pool such as squats and lifting jugs of water over their heads. These have helped build their confidence in the water while also improving their strength. While kids of their age would typically resist physio exercises Ann does everything with them in a fun way that the brothers enjoy.
“These brothers love their swimming lessons and we are quite sure that it has helped them get closer to walking” says Cliff. Keep up the great work boys, we at MAC are very proud of what you have achieved so far.