Summertime is supposed to be a time of carefree fun for children in Cincinnati. However, one popular summer activity can be dangerous and even deadly. That’s why Karima Salaam searched high and low for swim lessons for her son Christopher. Thanks to donor support, Karima found the perfect program though Mercy Health.

“Before, Christopher was at risk. Now, he knows what to do if he gets pushed in, or falls into a pool,” says Karima. “It’s important to me and my family to know that he is safe. It’s a very, very good program.”

Mercy Health pediatrician Dr. Stephen Wilson started the Forest Park Swim Safety Initiative to save lives. Drowning is the second leading cause of injury death for children, and there are gender and racial disparities in drowning fatalities. This program provides water safety lessons to children, thanks to donor support.

“I looked around at different organizations that have swimming lessons and they’re all pretty pricey,” says Karima. “I am very, very appreciative for free programs like this.”

Thanks to the generosity of donors, Karima doesn’t have to worry about her sons’ safety around water. And she is also grateful the program taught Christopher how to help others.

“They taught him a lot of things, like how to spot someone in trouble if there isn’t a lifeguard around. He knows how to get them to safety,” says Karima. “It’s just a big confidence boost for all of us. And, Christopher can keep up with is older brother now. They can enjoy going to the pool and have fun together. I’m very grateful for this program.”