Swimming a winning formula

The relaxing power of water is especially important for five year old Ethan Whear, who suffers from seizures and muscle spasms caused by a rare condition called leukodystrophy, along with a number of associated health problems.

Frequent muscle spasms force his body into a state of constant tension and being in the water helps alleviate this and allow his muscles to relax. 

Purchasing a pool was beyond the Gulf Harbour family’s reach, but last month, Hell Pizza’s Satan’s Little Helper charity stepped in, providing a pool and toys.

Ethan’s mum, Amy, says he goes in the pool every day. “Even if it’s raining, he’ll stand by the window until it stops and then he’ll ask to go in,” she says.

She says his water confidence has increased and the water calms him.

“Sometimes we’ll hold him in the water, or he’ll use the pool noodles and float,” she says. “It helps him sleep better as well, because he’s more relaxed.”

Leukodystrophy has no cure, so treatment is limited to managing symptoms. 

Amy says despite these enormous challenges, her son is determined to make the most of life and that Ethan was super excited when he recently started school.

She says the whole family is making use of the pool during the hot summer.

“It has been so great for Ethan – and even better that we can all enjoy it,” she says. “Thank you Satan’s Little Helper.”