24/07/2023
Over the weekend, we participated in the Winter Swimming Champs (Aquafins Swimming Club), an event that always evokes mixed emotions for me, especially when watching the disabled swimmers compete. On one hand, I am filled with amazement, joy, and love for these young, talented, and confident swimmers. On the other hand, I can't help but feel a great sense of disappointment in myself, realizing that I cannot achieve what these incredible athletes can. Despite feeling grateful for their abilities, I can't help but feel inadequate in comparison.
During the event, we had the privilege of sitting next to Mandeville Disability Swimming, where we met the most remarkable lady named Debbie. Debbie enlightened us about the swimmers, their rigorous training schedules, and their remarkable achievements. We were deeply impressed by Debbie's unwavering commitment, organizational skills, and support for these gifted young athletes.
Kay asked Debbie about the absence of female swimmers, which surprised us, considering that Kay and I are both mothers of daughters who have recently entered a new phase of their lives. The reason, as Debbie explained, was disheartening β the young female swimmers refrain from competing due to the lack of suitable "period swimming costumes." Blushproof
This revelation deeply moved both Kay and me. Empowering our fellow sisters is important to me, and I was taken aback by the fact that times have changed since "our days," and our daughters now have more options and products available to them during their periods.
As a result, we have taken it upon ourselves to seek sponsors or donations for these young ladies so that they can feel confident to swim and compete without discomfort or shame during their periods. I am even willing to offer my Yoga services and hold fundraising classes to support this cause. Therefore, I am appealing to my friends to see if anyone has contacts or networks that could assist us in providing these young female swimmers with the opportunity to compete without feeling ashamed or uncomfortable.