How can the aquatic environment enhance the quality of life for individuals with Rett Syndrome?

Aquatic therapy can provide support for individuals with Rett Syndrome, addressing challenges related to muscle strength, motor coordination, and motor control. Movements that are challenging to accomplish on land can be more easily achieved in the water, because of its natural buoyancy.

Thriving with Rett: Aquatic Therapy Guide

Ailene Tisser (PT), co-founder of Swim Angelfish, had the pleasure of writing an Aquatic Therapy Guide for the Rett Syndrome Research Trust. In this guide, titled Thriving with Rett: Aquatic Therapy Guide, she leverages her knowledge of water’s therapeutic properties, combined with her understanding of Rett Syndrome, to explain how aquatic therapy can bolster increased mobility, breath control, and balance reactions.

This guide is designed to empower individuals with Rett Syndrome on their journey to greater well-being.

Ailene Tisser, MA, PT, Founder

Ailene is a pediatric Physical Therapist with more than 25 years of experience treating a variety of diagnoses, both in and out of the water. She is NDT (Neuro-Developmental Treatment) trained in pediatrics and is trained in DIR/Floortime. She is currently certified as an Autism Specialist by IBCCES. Ailene brings all of her Physical Therapy expertise into the water, where she helps children of all abilities feel safe, confident, and independent. She combines her passion and skill for working with children with special needs with the therapeutic properties of the water to achieve amazing results. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience by educating other Aquatic Professionals so that they can also make a significant impact on the lives of swimmers with special needs.

Cindy Freedman, MOTR, Founder

Cindy is a recreational therapist and an Occupational therapist. After working for ten years as a recreational therapist in a variety of settings, she pursued a Master’s degree in OT. Her career as an OT includes specialty training in sensory integration, reflex repatterning, and aquatics. She is currently certified as an Autism Specialist by IBCCES. As a swimmer and national champion diver, Her love of the water combined with her education and work experience created them an opportunity for Swim Angelfish to become a reality! “Our mission is to create an aquatic community of trained instructors so that together we can decrease the alarming statistic of drowning being the leading cause of death for children with special needs.”