A six-year-old Glasgow boy born with Spina Bifida has achieved what his family describes as a "miracle" swimming milestone. Phoenix Wark, who has reduced movement and sensation in his legs, can now swim and float independently after four years of lessons with Water Babies.
Phoenix uses a wheelchair and posterior walker because he is unable to stand unaided. His mother, Lauren Wark, originally enrolled him in lessons to help him feel confident and safe in the water, but she said she could not have imagined how transformative swimming would be for her son.
From confidence to independence
Lauren said: "When we started Water Babies I was keen to just have Phoenix be confident in the water. I’ve always been a bit afraid of the water and was never able to swim well. What I never could have imagined was how much freedom being in the water would give Phoenix, and that I myself would begin to love the water and learn so much."
Since starting lessons, Phoenix has progressed significantly. He can now float and swim independently and, according to his mother, "absolutely loves being underwater." She added: "He truly is our water baby."
Overcoming a surgical setback
Phoenix's journey has not been without challenges. In 2025, he underwent necessary surgery and was unable to swim while recovering. His family worried that the break might affect his movement and abilities, both in and out of the pool. However, upon his return, they were amazed by his progress.
Lauren said: "Since having his op, the difference in Phoenix’s swimming and leg movement is nothing short of a miracle. An achievement constantly praised and recognised by Kerrie, Mairi and Ashley, his swimming teachers."
Supportive teaching team
Phoenix has been supported by a team of Water Babies teachers who adapted lessons around his individual needs and celebrated every milestone. Water Babies teachers hold three separate Swim Teaching qualifications from Swim England as part of their training, which provides in-depth knowledge of early years education in the water.
The Glasgow team's lessons are designed to be accessible and adaptable, allowing teachers to work with families to tailor activities. For children with physical disabilities or additional needs, this can involve adapting activities, techniques, and support so they can participate, develop water skills at their own pace, and experience the physical and mental benefits of being in the pool.
Water Babies Teacher Ashley said: "Phoenix is such an inspirational little boy. When Phoenix first started his journey with Water Babies, he had very limited movement in his legs. But by the time he graduated, those little legs simply didn’t stop!"
Ashley added: "Phoenix took part in all the activities, and throughout his journey, our teachers worked closely with Mum to make sure the right level of support was always in place. For the most part, this meant Mum being there to provide that extra support and encouragement whenever Phoenix needed it. Not only is Phoenix amazing in the way he manages his condition, but his Mum is truly incredible too. She has always taken on board the teachers’ instructions, worked so closely with the team, and played such an important role in helping Phoenix become the fantastic little swimmer he is today."
Ashley concluded: "Phoenix’s progress is a wonderful reminder of what can be achieved with determination, support, and a fantastic team around you. We are so proud of him and everything he has accomplished."
