Ask About Asthma: Jenson’s Story

Asthma is often seen as a barrier to being active, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be…

Every movement matters and physical activity can actually play a huge role in helping children manage their condition. For Ask About Asthma Week, we reached out to parents supporting children with asthma and we were blown away by Jenson’s story. Kelly, Jenson’s mum has kindly shared their experience of living with asthma and how swimming through our WaterWise programme has helped.

Jenson’s Asthma Journey

Jenson’s asthma journey began very early in life. At just five weeks old, he was hospitalised with septicaemia and severe respiratory distress, starting inhaler treatment immediately. His first year alone brought 11 hospital admissions and much of his early childhood was spent in and out of hospital. As Kelly says:

“We joked that we would owe room rent on the children’s ward!”

Despite this difficult start, Jenson has never let his asthma hold him back.

Staying Active with Asthma

Kelly shares that Jenson has always thrown himself into games and exercise. While he sometimes struggles with stamina or feels frustrated when he can’t keep up with peers, his determination shines through:

“He doesn’t and hasn’t ever let his asthma stop him from doing anything… he will always try.”

On top of his asthma, Jenson also manages a number of airborne allergies and always carries epi-pens for safety. Chlorine can sometimes make his asthma flare up too, but he refuses to let these additional challenges stop him.

Why Swimming?

For Kelly, swimming was a must:

It’s a life skill and key to water safety.

As a non-swimmer herself, she wanted Jenson to have the best chance to learn early.

Jenson’s consultant recommended it as an excellent activity to strengthen his lungs and practise controlled breathing.

The WaterWise Experience

Through weekly swimming lessons and badge sessions, Jenson has flourished. He’s even achieved his 2000m distance badge – a huge milestone he’s very proud of. While it sometimes takes him a little longer than others, his steady determination keeps him going.

When Jenson’s confidence dipped moving into a faster-paced, higher stage, his teacher Nikki and the wider team made sure he felt safe and supported. They reassured him he could take breaks whenever needed, use his inhaler poolside and re-join when ready. This reassurance – combined with encouragement from his consultants and family – has helped him keep progressing.

The Benefits Beyond Swimming

Jenson’s consultants, asthma nurses, and physiotherapists are all advocates for his continued swimming, recognising how it strengthens his lungs and boosts his wellbeing. Regular reviews, spirometry tests, and an up-to-date asthma action plan ensure he’s managing his condition well.

Kelly says:

“It’s such a great thing to keep them active and teach them to use their full lung capacity, pushing them to learn steady and controlled breathing techniques.”

Advice for Other Parents

Kelly understands the hesitation some parents may feel, but encourages others not to let asthma hold their children back:

Always discuss activities with your consultant or GP.

Have an asthma plan tailored to your child’s needs.

Keep an inhaler close by during activity.

Inform teachers or coaches so they can provide support if needed.

Her biggest message: don’t be afraid of activity – it can be one of the best tools to help children manage their asthma.

In his own words, Jenson says he loves swimming. While he doesn’t want to compete once he’s finished his lessons, he’s determined to see them through to the end and achieve the very best he can.

Kelly says,

“As a mum of three asthmatics, it’s really opened my eyes just how different everyone’s symptoms and asthma experiences can be! There isn’t a one size fits all when it comes to asthma.”

An Inspiring Journey

Jenson’s story is a powerful reminder that asthma doesn’t have to hold children back. His determination to keep pushing himself, combined with the right support from his medical team and the encouragement of his family, shows just how much is possible.

A special mention goes to Kelly, whose support and commitment to helping him grow in confidence, learn valuable life skills, and keep active is truly commendable.

Together, they show us that with the right guidance and encouragement, every movement really can make a difference.

We are committed to continuing this support for all children with asthma, and our staff will be enrolling on specialist training courses to enhance their knowledge and confidence in this area — a big thank you to Active Lincolnshire for sharing this training with us.

Ask About Asthma

Ask Asthma Week is about reminding us all that asthma shouldn’t be a barrier to living an active life.

If you need support, please tap the link below. Or, if you want to start getting your child active why not find out more about our swimming lesson programme.

Support Swimming Lessons