A MERRIMACK Y FAMILY’S STORY
Water safety has always been a priority for the Merrimack YMCA family of Tim (dad), Erin (mom), and their two boys, Declan (7) and Brendan (4). The family enjoys boating and often vacations or camps near water, so Tim and Erin have consistently emphasized water safety with their children.
However, about a year and a half ago, they experienced a frightening close call. While on vacation in Florida, Brendan—then just 3 years old—accidentally fell into a dip pool outside their vacation townhouse. “It happened just like that, and he was suddenly underwater,” Erin recalled. She immediately jumped in and pulled him out. Erin described how traumatic the moment was and how quickly it all happened, even though Brendan wasn’t actually swimming at the time.
Shortly after that incident, the family began exploring more structured swim lesson options. Though the boys had participated in occasional lessons elsewhere, Tim and Erin decided to join the Merrimack Y as family members and enrolled their sons in swim programs.
Brendan, who has epilepsy, requires close monitoring around water. Erin spoke with Alyssa, the Merrimack Aquatics Director, about enrolling him in personal swim lessons. Erin shared how meaningful it was that Alyssa asked detailed questions about Brendan’s condition, even wanting to understand what a seizure might look like so she could be fully prepared. “Alyssa asking questions about his epilepsy was so important to us. She’s been wonderful,” Erin said.
After seeing Brendan’s progress, the family also enrolled his brother Declan. Initially hesitant to go underwater or swim where he couldn’t touch the bottom, Declan made incredible strides in just three lessons. He now swims independently, dives underwater, and even enjoys the deep end. “It’s not just their swimming that’s improved,” Tim and Erin shared. “Their confidence has grown so much. They’re both so happy in the water.”
Beyond swim lessons, the family enjoys plenty of quality time at the Y together—playing floor hockey, shooting hoops, and enrolling the boys in Ninja classes, which have also helped boost their confidence.
And when asked what they love most about swimming? Both boys answered with big smiles: “Going underwater!”
At the YMCA of Greater Nashua we’re proud to offer lifesaving skills, confidence-building programs, and opportunities for families to grow and play together!
Support Water Safety and Confidence-Building for Every Child
Stories like Brendan and Declan’s are only possible because of donors like you. Your gift helps provide swim lessons, adaptive programs, and a safe, supportive environment for children of all abilities to grow and thrive in and out of the water.