SEASTARS will be now featuring a swimmer’s Story each month. The March Featured Swimmer’s Story of the Month is Alec Crumpler.

“My son, Alec, has been swimming with Seastars for almost 9 years. The program has made a big difference in our lives.

Alec has Tourettes Syndrome and OCD. He also stutters. Before we found Seastars, we had tried 3 other programs for swim lessons. They all offered the lessons in a group of 6 to 10 children. Alec was very self conscious because, at that time, he could not get a word out without stammering and he had some very big motor tics–like jerking his arms and head. Of course, the other kids stared as did some of the coaches and parents. Alec wanted to quit. No matter how much I tried to convince him otherwise. Here was my son who loved being in the water, but was too embarrassed to take lessons in a group. His self confidence was at zero.

Then we found Seastars. At that time he had instruction with Coach Heather. He loved her as much as he loved the water! From there he swam with a small group of special needs swimmers and finally started swimming with the team. He has participated in dozens of meets and has even helped with summer swim lessons at the Salvation Army.

Alec has gained confidence, self discipline, and the lifelong skill of swimming. He knows what it is like to be completely accepted as part of a team. For that, I will always be grateful to Robin Heller. Little did I know when I took my son for swim lessons 8 years ago, that not only could he be involved with an activity like other kids, but that he would become part of something much bigger–a family.”

We love you Seastars!
Denise and Alec Crumpler