“The water makes me feel free and able to do things I can’t do on land. I encourage anyone to come along and give it a try.”
About Niveda
Niveda used to swim regularly with her mum but stopped after spinal surgery ten years ago. She has Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease), which means she needs support getting into the pool and while in the water. When her best friend Beth suggested they find a place to swim together, Niveda was keen to try again.
Finding WeSwim
After searching online for a swimming club for disabled people, Niveda came across WeSwim. Although hesitant at first, she joined the Vauxhall club with Beth in October 2024. “I remember Izzy and the other volunteers being so welcoming. They showed Beth and I around, including the changing rooms, and helped me use the hoist. I was scared using the hoist at first, but I quickly got used to it. Beth came with me every week until March, and now I feel confident swimming with other volunteers.”
After a few sessions, Niveda began exploring different techniques to improve her swimming.
“Even though it had been a long time since I last swam, being in the water again gave me the belief that I could still do it. Now I swim on my own with a noodle and even go into the deep end. My next goal is to swim a full length without any float.”For Niveda, WeSwim is about more than just exercise. “The water gives me freedom – I can move in ways I can’t outside of it because of my bones. The people I’ve met at WeSwim understand me. We laugh, we joke, and we support each other. It’s become such a positive part of my life.”
