Photo: Granger Smith Instagram; Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
GrangerandAmber Smithare opening up about the importance of teaching children how to swim at a young age in honor of their late sonRiver Kelly, whodied at the age of 3after a tragic drowning accident in 2019.
“I never thought I would post something like this, but my mind is blown. This is a vid of our 8 month old Maverick on his 10th ISR (infant swim rescue) lesson,” the country singer wrote. “He’s in full clothes and diaper. He can barely crawl, but now he knows how to hold his breath, twist his body, find the air, float on his back and cry. He can do this falling in head first, feet first or any orientation. He has the skills to float until help comes.”
“He’s a warrior and doesn’t even realize it,” Granger added. “He’s an example for many families who see this video. Only ONE person needs to see this, and hear my plea to you. Drowning is the#1accidental death of children age 4 and under. Thinking that adult supervision is enough is an absolutely DEADLY miscalculation. Hear me. I used to think that too.”
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“I could not attend these classes because of my own vulnerabilities, but@amberemilysmithis an absolute rockstar and feels an obligation to the public to share this message,” he ended his note. “Spread the word. River’s life mattered. He’s saving thousands of others. Hear me.”
Amber continued, “Before you make any snap judgements about something that seems unusual to you, I beg you, from a mother who has lost a child to drowning, check out the lessons and instructors for yourselves,” she continued. “I am truly amazed at what Maverick has accomplished in such a short time. I’m already so hopeful, excited and empowered for the next phase.”
In June 2019, River tragicallydied in a drowning accidentat the family’s Texas home. Grangershared the “unthinkable” newson Twitter and Instagram at the time, revealing that “despite doctor’s best efforts, he was unable to be revived.” River was laid to rest on June 11.
The grieving parents — who are also parents to sonLincoln, 8, and daughterLondon, 10 — told PEOPLE that they will never know how Rivermanaged to enterinto their fenced pool, whichled to his accidental drowning, but have since become vocal advocates forchildren’s safety around water.
source: people.com
