The reason I returned to the pool after such a long time was the aftermath of chemotherapy, which left me with nerve damage in both legs and reduced lung function.
Additionally, my 92-year-old mother, who I had been caring for at home, moved into a nursing home, giving me the time to focus on my own health for the first time in years.
It was the advice of a veteran orthopedic surgeon and a young, beautiful pulmonologist that encouraged me to start swimming again.
### Why swimming was recommended：
– The buoyancy of water makes it safe to move without the fear of falling.
– Additionally, swimming helps strengthen the lungs and the muscles used for breathing.
When the pulmonologist asked me, “Can you swim?”
I couldn’t help but laugh and reply, “Of course！ I was a swimmer.”
To my surprise, I realized I had forgotten that I used to be a swimmer.
With a warm smile, that lovely doctor said, “Then swim. It’s the best way to restore your lung function.”
This advice gave me the push I needed to take my first step back into the pool after 38 years.
When I stepped into the water, I felt a mix of surprise and deep emotion.
It was a strange yet wonderful feeling.