Declan started CAN Swim lessons when he was 4 years old.
Since then, his love of water hasn’t stopped! After graduating from CAN swim, he went on to earn all 10 Red Cross swim level badges through his local community centre.
That’s before he even turned 10.
When he was around 8 years old, he had his first encounter with competitive swimming.
“A swim club coach saw me swim laps and told my dad that I was very good,” Declan said. “But they didn’t want me to join when they found out I was deaf and Autistic.”
We believe that every community should take action to support & include Autistic individuals.
Luckily, Declan’s first experience with a competitive swim club wasn’t his last. Five years later, he joined Dynamo Swim Club, a group in Burnaby and Surrey.
Declan’s mom, Helen, credits Dynamo Swim Club with giving Declan his start with competitive swimming.
“They accepted him with open arms when other swim clubs would not take him,” she said.
After two years with Dynamo, Declan is now part of both Olympians Swimming in Burnaby and Special Olympics Coquitlam.
“I first learned to swim with CAN. And now I am a competitive swimmer with two great swim clubs who accept me for who I am.”
Last month, Declan represented Special Olympics Coquitlam at the 2026 BC Summer Games in Kelowna. He competed in 10 swimming events over three days.
The result? Declan brought home an impressive 10 medals: 8 gold & 2 silvers!
For Declan, learning to swim began as a lifesaving skill.
And thanks to local swim clubs who are accepting, inclusive, and welcoming, it has since become a passion – something he truly excels at!
Way to go, Declan! Keep shining.
Did you know Declan’s family also fundraises for CAN each year?
Support their campaign and help more participants like Declan! canucksautism.ca/declan