MDI member, Andy shares his experiences on the benefits of swimming and some obstacles he faced.

I used to go swimming twice a week before Covid. When I went back after Covid, I wouldn’t have been able for twice a week at the start and so went just once a week. However, when I was ready to get back to going twice a week, as I need help in the swimming pool, I originally found it difficult to get Personal Assistance support back in place again for the second time, but I have it now.

The swimming is very good for me, and I can do things in the pool I can’t do out of it, like lifting my legs higher. There is a hoist in my pool which is great as not many places have them. As floor gets wet, I need help so my clothes don’t go on the floor and get wet.

Swimming gives independence and I can meet people afterwards for a coffee and it’s good for the head. Exercise in water is good for people with disabilities and its low impact; I can float in the water, and it helps my mobility. It is important to keep the muscles going as long as you can, and it’s the right way to do it and no good giving up.