WHEATON, Ill. — With summer in full swing, the pool is more than just a place for laughter and splashing. For three-year-old Kennedy Jachna, it’s where she works hard at physical therapy, determined to live her best life with her rare genetic diagnosis, Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP) syndrome, that affects brain development. At Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital, Kennedy’s care team turned exercise into playtime through their aquatic therapy program, allowing her to enjoy the fun of pool time while making real progress toward important developmental milestones.

“Aquatic therapy lets kids like Kennedy work on strength and movement in a way that feels like summer fun, not therapy,” said Anton Dietzen, MD, pediatric medical director at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital. “The water helps her relax, try new things, and celebrate every achievement. Kennedy’s progress in the pool has been inspiring to watch.”

Aquatic therapy is delivered by specially trained therapists who tailor exercises to each child’s needs, often combining physical, occupational, and recreational therapy for holistic progress. For patients with ADNP, therapists focus on muscle development, sensory integration, emotional well-being, and social participation. Many children with ADNP syndrome are naturally drawn to water, showing enthusiasm and motivation during aquatic therapy. This affinity can accelerate progress and make therapy more effective.

“We often see children open up in the water in ways that surprise even their families,” said Katherine Foulks PT, DPT, the pediatric physical therapist at Marianjoy who has been working with Kennedy in the pool since she was about 19 months old. “Kennedy is a great example of how the right environment can unlock potential, helping kids stay engaged while they build their physical and social skills. The combination of progress and fun is what makes this work so meaningful.”

ADNP syndrome, also known as Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome, is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the ADNP gene. It can present intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and significant delays in speech and motor skills. Children can also experience low muscle tone, making strength training and therapies crucial for daily life.

Kennedy’s enthusiasm for her therapy sessions is unmistakable. Though mostly non-verbal, she expresses her joy with happy grunts and can hardly wait to get in the water, often knocking on the pool door in anticipation. In the pool, Kennedy laughs, smiles, and accomplishes movements that are challenging for her on land. The water turns therapy into play, making each session a highlight of her week.

For Caitlin Jachna, Kennedy’s mom, watching her daughter thrive in aquatic therapy is deeply emotional and affirming. She and her husband were moved to tears during Kennedy’s first session, seeing their daughter so happy and engaged. The joy Kennedy finds in the water and the progress she makes bring hope and relief to her family, reinforcing their gratitude for having access to such innovative, compassionate care.

“From the very first session, we saw a different side of Kennedy in the water,” said Caitlin Jachna. “She was smiling, laughing and doing things we had struggled to see on land. It was incredibly emotional for us as parents, but also so reassuring to see her so happy and engaged. Aquatic therapy has truly been a game-changer for her.”

Kennedy’s journey shows how creative, patient-centered care can help children overcome challenges and embrace the joys of childhood. Marianjoy’s aquatic therapy program is just one example of how the hospital supports families and empowers kids to reach their full potential.

“Honestly, the pool is one of Kennedy’s favorite places to be, and it shows,” said Dietzen. “When a child is smiling, laughing and eager to jump in, you know you’re creating something special. Those moments remind us that therapy can feel just like play.”

Northwestern Medicine offers aquatic therapy at Marianjoy and throughout Chicagoland for adults and children who find it hard to move or exercise in a typical therapy session. Physicians and staff work with patients to develop an aquatic therapy program that may be used alone or with more traditional movement therapies.

Founded in 1972, Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital delivers innovative rehabilitation solutions with compassion. The hospital treats a wide range of injuries and illnesses with specialized programs for brain injury, neuromuscular, orthopedic, pediatric spinal cord, and stroke rehabilitation.

 To learn more, visit: https://www.nm.org/locations/marianjoy-rehabilitation-hospital.