Gustavo’s Big Swim: Help a Champion Make Waves in Thailand

My name is Marly, and I am the proud mom of Gustavo, a wonderful 17-year-old young man with Down Syndrome who dreams big and inspires everyone around him every single day.

When Gustavo was born, I was told by a social worker to lower my expectations — to be “realistic” about what his future could hold. I was advised to just teach him to read enough to maybe get a part-time job at a supermarket. But I refused to accept those limits. I believed in Gustavo’s potential, and I knew that with love, support, and determination, he could achieve so much more.

Today, Gustavo is not just defying expectations — he is breaking records and shining on the international stage. He holds 10 Junior American Records in the International Down Syndrome Swimming Organization. He has proudly represented the United States in World Championships in Portugal, France, and Argentina, and now he has his eyes set on the Virtus Swimming World Championships in Thailand, which will take place from August 20 to August 30, 2025.

Gustavo trains with the Cowboys Cooper City Swimming team, the YMCA Barracudas, and the USA Down Syndrome Swimming team. Beyond swimming, he attends general education classes at Cooper City High School, an achievement that fills me with so much pride and joy.

Attending the Virtus Swimming World Championships in Thailand isn’t just another competition for Gustavo. It’s a chance to prove that the labels and limitations placed on him don’t define him. It’s a chance for him to compete with incredible athletes with intellectual disabilities from all over the world, gain life-changing experience, and inspire others like him to dream bigger.

The total cost for Gustavo to attend this life-changing event is about $6,500. This includes airfare, registration, uniforms, coaching, lodging, and meals.

Every contribution, no matter the size, will help make this dream a reality. Your support means the world to us and will give Gustavo the chance to continue his journey of growth, achievement, and hope.

Thank you so much for reading our story and for considering supporting Gustavo. Your kindness will help my son reach a goal that once seemed impossible — and prove that with love and determination, anything is possible.

Please share this campaign with your friends and family. Together, we can help Gustavo swim his dream!