Hydrotherapy is incredibly beneficial for kids like Oakley. It’s also currently the only way in which he can work his aerobic system i.e.. ‘get out breath’ And he loves it! The progression over time has been enormous and he loves pool side seated diving for weighted hoops and sticks.
The whole-body resistance training in the water is fantastic as part of his development and the confidence and striving for independence really shines in the water, as we take away the problem of gravity for mobility for kids with SMA.
Oakley receives occasional blocks through the NHS and we pay privately for occasional blocks of swimming lessons, hydrotherapy, or also standard pool sessions.
Saturday mornings Oakley regularly attends a free specialist session for disabled kids which is just out of Bristol and is brilliant.
May 2026 Oakley is going to Swimlab for the first time for 1 week. They say: “We use paediatric aquatic therapy to help your child develop skills more quickly than they would with land-based therapy alone. As he or she gains confidence in the water, we transfer the skills they learn in the pool onto dry land. It’s the secret to our success and helps to grow their self-esteem as much as their ability.”
Thank you for all your help!
Please see the blog for all the updates on fundraising activities.