South Florida Leaders Urge Action to Prevent Child Drownings

In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, a community gathers at the L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center, driven by the haunting reality of child drownings that have left families forever changed. Among those sharing their stories is Ana Nguyen, whose daughter Jenny tragically drowned at a birthday party in 2011. Jenny’s story underscores a pressing call to action echoed by local leaders and organizations.

South Florida is grappling with an alarming rise in child drownings, threatening to surpass last year’s record. Nicklaus Children’s Health System, YMCA of South Florida, and other community partners are rallying to address this crisis. They aim to reinforce preventative measures that could save young lives.

The event, held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10 a.m., brought together key figures like Senator Nan Rich, Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, and experts from Broward Health and the YMCA. The initiative emphasizes swimming lessons, proper supervision, pool safety, and CPR training as essential strategies.

Sheryl Woods, President & CEO of YMCA of South Florida, highlighted the importance of programs like “Swim for Jenny,” which offers free swim lessons in memory of Jenny Nguyen. Experts also stressed the need for designated ‘water watchers’ and the critical role of pool barriers and proper attire to prevent drownings.

Drowning remains the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1–4 in Florida. In a region surrounded by water, understanding and implementing safety measures is crucial for families. The event provided an opportunity for the media to engage directly with experts and hear personal testimonials, including from Jenny’s mom, whose loss continues to resonate deeply within the community.

Supported by the Florida Panthers, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and the YMCA are committed to expanding their drowning prevention initiatives. As the community unites to protect its children, the hope is that awareness and action will lead to a safer future for all.

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