Finding Strength in the Water: Doug’s Journey with MS and Aquatic Therapy

Doug’s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive disease that affects the central nervous system. Over time, MS took its toll, limiting his mobility and making daily activities increasingly challenging. But through perseverance and the support of aquatic therapy, Doug has found a way to stay active, improve his well-being, and hold onto his sense of purpose.

The Early Days of MS

Doug’s journey began with mysterious symptoms—a tingling sensation in his leg and difficulties performing physical tasks. It took time to get a diagnosis, and the uncertainty was overwhelming. “Before I got diagnosed, you don’t know what’s wrong with you,” Doug said. “You don’t know if it’s a brain tumor or something that’s going to kill you.”

Eventually, doctors confirmed Doug had MS. Despite the challenges, he continued working for several years, repairing machines and staying active. However, as his condition progressed, the physical demands became too great, and he was forced to stop working. Over time, Doug’s activities became more limited, and his life grew more confined.

A New Challenge: Loss of Mobility

One of the turning points in Doug’s journey came when he injured his foot after falling into a gutter. The injury wouldn’t heal, and doctors discovered he had no blood flow in his leg. Eventually, he lost the ability to walk altogether. “The only thing that works on me is my left arm,” Doug shared, reflecting on the gradual loss of his mobility.

Life in a wheelchair and bed became Doug’s new normal. Yet, even in the face of these challenges, Doug refused to give up.

Discovering Aquatic Therapy

Doug’s outlook began to change when he discovered the Aquability Program, a water-based exercise and therapy program designed for individuals with disabilities. “I saw something about them on TV, called them up, and started six years ago,” Doug said. Since then, he has been attending sessions weekly, finding both physical and emotional benefits in the water.

The program focuses on helping participants build strength and improve their daily functioning. For Doug, this means using the pool to work his left arm—the only part of his body with mobility—and strengthening his core. In the pool, gravity is removed, allowing Doug to move more freely than he can on land.

A Typical Session in the Pool

Each aquatic therapy session begins with Doug being acclimated to the water. His therapist helps him warm up, increasing blood flow to the muscles he’ll use during his exercises. Doug works on dynamic stretching, cardio, and strength training, using movements that engage his core and improve flexibility.

“In the pool, I can do things I can’t do anywhere else,” Doug said. “I can hold my breath, swim, and get my heart beating—it’s the only way I can get a workout like that.”

These sessions not only keep Doug physically active but also provide him with a sense of accomplishment and independence.

The Impact of Aquatic Therapy

Doug’s commitment to aquatic therapy has made a significant difference in his life. “If he didn’t have pool therapy, he’d be a lot worse off,” one of his supporters shared. The program has helped Doug maintain his strength, improve his overall well-being, and find joy in an otherwise limited routine.

“All week, I’m either in bed or in a wheelchair, but when I’m in the pool, it’s completely different,” Doug said. “I’m hooked on it. It’s part of me not giving up.”

A Message of Hope

Doug’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of finding the right support. While MS continues to challenge him daily, aquatic therapy has given Doug a way to stay active and focus on what he can do.

“A lot of people in my situation would be down, but I’m not giving up,” Doug said. “It’s never going to cure me, but it’s something I can do.”

Through the Aquability Program, Doug has found more than just exercise—he’s found a lifeline, a way to keep moving forward, and a reason to keep going.

For anyone facing similar challenges, Doug’s advice is simple: Don’t give up. Find something that works for you and hold onto it. Programs like Aquability are a reminder that even in the face of significant limitations, there are ways to thrive and rediscover the joys of life.