Swim school empowers young boy with unique chromosome disorder through swimming
Greyson Knowles is like most other kids his age. He loves playing with friends, listening to music and splashing around in the pool. However, like approximately 2.4 million children and adults in the UK, Greyson is affected by a rare genetic condition*. Despite the challenges posed by his diagnosis, with the support of swim school Water Babies Bucks & Beds, he has become an enthusiastic swimmer and recently achieved his Stage 1 badge – at just five years old.
Greyson has a unique and unnamed genetic condition characterised by a duplication on his 8p chromosome and a deletion on his 20p chromosome. He is the only known individual with this specific combination of genetic traits, which was discovered when he was four months old.
“Greyson has been attending Water Babies since he was tiny,” said Greyson’s mum, Laura. “His older sister also went there when she was little, and we wanted to provide equal opportunities for both our children. Ever since he started, Greyson has developed a strong love for the water and enjoys the music and singing incorporated into the classes. He appreciates the structured and consistent nature of the classes, and it’s heartwarming to see how the other children in the class include him and make him feel like part of the group.”
Though non-verbal and initially facing mobility challenges, Greyson has made incredible strides. He began walking just last year, gaining confidence in his movements, and Water Babies has played a pivotal role in helping him navigate sensory issues.
“Greyson had a hard time holding onto the pool’s edge because he didn’t like the sensation of wet tiles,” explained Laura. “The teachers were really supportive and helped him overcome this important safety skill through gradual exposure. The classes are inclusive, and many teachers use Makaton – a communication tool for young people with disabilities – to assist Greyson, who, despite being non-verbal, has excellent receptive language skills.”
Greyson’s recent accomplishment of earning his Stage 1 badge reflects his progress in the pool and growing confidence in the water. “He loves certificates and rewards,” said Laura. “When he received his Stage 1 badge, he was over the moon. He also enjoys getting stickers, which he proudly sticks onto his t-shirt and doesn’t stop touching all day. Anything like that really boosts his sense of pride and is incredible to see.”
Since launching Water Babies Bucks & Beds nearly 20 years ago, owner Tamsin Brewis has witnessed the incredible journey of thousands of infants and toddlers as they discover the joys of swimming and grow into confident little swimmers.
“Swimming offers a multitude of advantages for children with chromosome disorders,” explained Tamsin. “Its low-impact, buoyant setting is gentle on their bodies, making it accessible and conducive to promoting physical wellbeing. Additionally, swimming nurtures independence by allowing children to master new skills, which in turn builds their self-confidence. Beyond the personal benefits, it fosters a supportive community that helps these children feel a sense of belonging, especially if they may otherwise feel isolated due to their unique needs.”
Recent research has shed light on the prevalence of genetic conditions in children, with 1 in 25 children affected in the UK*. Tamsin recognises the importance of making swimming accessible to all children, regardless of their physical or genetic challenges.
“Our focus has always been on ensuring our young swimmers get as much as they can from their sessions,” said Tamsin. “We invest a lot of time and resources into adapting where necessary to suit the little ones who swim with us. It’s because of this that Greyson can swim with Water Babies, and Laura – like all of the other parents who bring their children to swim with us – can feel safe knowing their child is in the best possible hands. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to build water confidence and enjoy the many physical and emotional benefits swimming offers.”
For more information about Water Babies Bucks & Beds, visit: https://www.waterbabies.co.uk/lp/baby-swimming/bucks-and-beds
* Gene People UK, 2023