Puddle Ducks dive in with PJs to raise over £1,000 for baby charity

Leon Kesiak says thank you

Pre-school swimming specialist, Puddle Ducks, spent a whole week holding sponsored pyjama lessons at Oulder Hill Leisure Complex in Rochdale to raise £1,407.34 for UK charity HeadStart4Babies, an organisation dedicated to helping children with flat head syndrome.

After visiting 10-month-old Leon Kesiak, who suffers from the condition, Jo Gribben, franchise owner of Puddle Ducks East Lancs knew that she could help other children in the same situation by raising money during Puddle Ducks' annual Pyjama Week.

Jo said: "Sadly more and more children are being diagnosed with brachycephaly, also known as flat head syndrome, and unfortunately the NHS doesn't fund helmet treatments which cures the condition. This leaves families like Leon's looking for £1,950 for a STARband helmet.

"Our pyjama lessons have been hugely successful and we are so proud of the amount we have raised. All of the children and parents have thoroughly enjoyed being involved.”

The helmet is worn for nine months and works by obtaining improved proportions of the head. During this time, it maintains contact over the frontal and parietal regions to deter growth.

Using pyjamas in a lesson is not just for fun. If accidents happen, often it's when fully clothed. “We strongly believe it's our duty to ensure that our swimmers know what it feels like to be in water while wearing clothes,” explains Jo.

“Even just this short experience will help them to realise that even though they feel heavier, they can still do those all-important reactions of kicking to the surface, turning and reaching for the side."