Defining Life through Swimming

During his very first visit to the Home Integration Child Development Center on an April morning in 1989, Russel Malone literally created a splash. That was indeed a turning point in the life of this twenty-year-old who was diagnosed with autism during the early days of his life. 

On that day, along with his parents, Russel was given a tour through the Child Development Center. The sight of clear blue water in the swimming pool must have excited him beyond control because a second later, he jumped into the pool fully clothed. Before anyone could understand what was happening, Fr. Paul dove into the water, came up with the boy and swam back. That was the beginning of a relationship that would change Russel’s life. 

There were many ponds in the rural area where Russel’s family lived. They thought it was necessary for him to learn to swim for safety’s sake. His parents heard about the center and brought him there for swimming lessons.

During the school year, the Malone’s brought Russel to the center in the afternoon for swimming. During the summer, he was enrolled in the Home Integration Day Camp. He attended the day camp program every year until he was 18 years old.

In the beginning, Russel would put everything in his mouth. That was his way of exploring new things. Fr. Paul and his team patiently worked with him and the program brought about a remarkable change. Each experience he had contributed to his growth and development.

Once Russel turned 18 years old he no longer qualified for the Day Camp program offered by NIDD. Mr. & Mrs. Malone began searching for a program to assist with Russel’s continued growth and development. He enjoyed activities, especially ones related to swimming.

The National Institute on Developmental Delays offered an overnight camp that was being held one weekend every month. Home Integration acquired a contract with Developmental Disabilities to serve individuals with disabilities through the Respite Waiver. This allowed more individuals to participate in the camp experience and enabled many children to participate that could not previously afford it. 

Russel, who was once considered a most challenging student in the public school system, was the subject of many media stories on account of his progress through the program. “We are very appreciative for the things that the program has done for Russel”, says Mrs. Malone. “Russel really enjoys participating in the camp experience”. In the meantime, Russel is currently working to achieve higher goals in his life.