Myrna Nelson (front), Mary Akkerman and Brenda Goembel use the new access ramp at the Rock County Pool and Fitness Center for the first time Tuesday.
By Lori Ehde
For many swimmers at the Rock County Pool and Fitness Center, getting into the water just got easier.
A long-awaited access ramp was installed in the north corner of the shallow end Monday.
The 15-foot-long ramp has stable stainless steel rails and enters the water at a gentle decline toward the deep end of the pool.
For elderly swimmers, those with disabilities and physical therapy patients, the ramp has been high on their wish list for several years.
"This is what we've been waiting for so long," said Mary Akkerman, who helps adults with disabilities toward independent living.
She and her clients entered the pool Monday with amazed smiles on their faces. Previously, they had to use a chair lift on the south side of the pool to access the water.
Akkerman strongly advocates the water for any kind of therapy. "I had knee surgery a year ago, and my recovery was faster because of being in the water."
According to Pool and Fitness Center Manager Carol Wessels the hospital sends roughly 10 patients a week to the pool for physical therapy two to three hours a day.
She said the ramp is referred to as a handicap access ramp, but it has already been appreciated by all kinds of swimmers.
"The other group that will benefit is parents with small children," Wessels said. "It's really hard to get in and out of the water with a child in your arms."
Luverne's access ramp cost $6,624.30. It was purchased with a gift from Luverne Community Hospital and Luverne Community Health Care Foundation, which equally shared the cost.
Wessels said the facility has been exploring the possibility of a ramp for some time, but she said to do it right was always too cost prohibitive.
"With a one-size-fits-all ramp, you have a real problem with algae, which becomes a concern for disease," Wessels said.
"With this one, everything is fabricated for this pool ... It doesn't interfere with our circulation system."