Giant Poster Marks World Down's Syndrome Day For Happy Henry White

GREATER MANCHESTER, U.K. - March 13, 2013 - PRLog -- Toddler Henry White, who has Down's Syndrome, swims like a fish and boasts a beaming smile that lights up the corners of the darkest room every time he enters the water at his regular Aqua Babies swimming class.

Now his teacher and bosses at Aqua Babies have recognised the happy two and a half year old’s infectious enthusiasm by posting a giant poolside picture of him at the Aqua Babies Centre at Timperley, near Altrincham, to mark World Down’s Syndrome Day later this month.

“Henry epitomizes all that is good about swimming and we wanted to recognise his hard work and enthusiasm by putting up the poster in time for Down’s syndrome Day on March 21st,” said Aqua Babies founder and director Wendy Edmondson.

“The poster shows Henry effortlessly swimming underwater with that signature broad smile on his cute little face. It’s the sort of photo that will bring a smile to everybody’s face.

“Although we are an inclusive swimming school and treat all our pupils with the same respect, we felt Henry’s achievements were even more remarkable in view of his challenges. He’s a real star!”

Henry’s swim-class teacher Jo Green said: “Henry is a very happy little boy who always has a smile on his face and is a regular attendee of our classes. He will try anything and really looks forward to getting into the water.

“He joined us when he was just a few months old but he is now an advanced pupil. He is always so happy when he is in the water and has made remarkable progress.

“I’ve actually learned some signing which has helped me to communicate with Henry who is such a happy and willing little boy.”

Henry’s mum Emma, speaking from the family home in Withington, Manchester, said: “We started Henry at Aqua Babies when he was just four months old following advice from our pediatrician who felt the exercise would strengthen his neck muscles.

“He now loves going to his regular classes and has made lots of friends.”

“Henry’s dad Rob added: “The swimming lessons are part of our approach to try to treat him the same as other children, enabling him integrate in normal activities.  It’s great for both Henry and us, as first time parents, to be part of groups such as Aqua Babies as it gives us all confidence for the future and enables Henry to achieve what he wants to.

“Hopefully like his classmates at mainstream nursery, it is also beneficial for his friends at swimming to grow up alongside a Down’s Syndrome child who is participating fully alongside them – albeit one who makes a lot of noise and splashing!”

ENDS