www.incontinentsupport.org

Well I thought I should give it a go. I found out that my local pool has 2 sesions a week just for disabled people.
I phoned and booked then thought how shall I go about it with the catheter and bag. I did some research on the web and 1 or 2 sites saying not to go in with the bag on but either plug the catheter or use a valve. On the other hand the spinal cord injury site said to leave the bag in place to reduce the chance of infection. I decided to leave it in place after all once in the pool I did not want to have to get out to use the toilet anyway. I packed everything in my ruck sack swim shorts and a extra leg bag sleeve to replace the wet one with afterwards and off I went.
I got changed ok in the disabled room and went out to the pool side in the wheelchair feeling a bit self conscious but the staff were great. They came over with an electric hoist chair which I transferd into from the wheelchair and in no time at all was in the pool. They gave me a couple of swimming aids and I was away. I could not have swum without the aids but it was wonderful being in the water just relaxing and some gentle swimming just using my arms.
When it was time to get out the hoist chair was brought and I was out and back on the wheelchair in no time.

All in really pleased with myself and will definitely do it again.

4wheeldave.

Dave,

Darn, now I consider that brave!! Well done.

--John

Thanks for that John.

4wheeldave.

As a foley user, I usually just use a flip flo valve on the end of my foley to go swimming. I cleanse the connections with alcohol preps before changing from bag to valve and vice versa. It seems to work ok.

Thanks. The problem with me is I do not want to have to get the life guards to bring over the hoist to get me out of the pool just to go and open the flip vale for a pee. I want to stay in for the whole hour and this meant a prity full bag when I got out.

It's now 4 days since I went into the pool with the bag attached and I am feeling fine so will probably stick with it.
I have e mailed the bladder and bowel foundation about it for what they think but not had anything back yet.

Thanks

4wheeldave.

Dave,

Congratulations. Using the pool, even with assistance, was a genuine achievement. You're an example for the rest of us, myself included.

Dave Thank you for sharing that with us. That took a ton of courage and makes my issues seem small.

That's very kind thanks.

4wheeldave.

Dave, I've been holding this in since you first posted. My sarcasm is taking over. Please forgive me as it is meant with love and admiration.

Congratulations on taking the plunge! Good for you for diving in!

Sorry. I had to do it. But in all serousness, congrats. I'm proud of you for trying and I'm glad it all worked out.

'dave, I'm so glad you "got your face wet"! Puns (which, btw, I can't resist) aside, I'm happy that you had a great experience. Bravo!

Wetters