For 3-year-old Mark Negoduik, the journey to our Super Sprites learn-to-swim class at Battery Park City was unimaginable.
Mark’s remarkable story began two years ago, when, days before Russia invaded their home country of Ukraine, Mark’s parents Dmytro (Dima) Negoduik and Iryna Razhyk discovered that Mark had brain cancer that required a life-saving operation.
To find the medical treatment Mark needed, the Negoduiks knew they’d have to flee their home. Dima reached out to New York City’s Koenig Childhood Cancer Foundation hoping someone could help, and weeks later, the foundation had set them up with accommodations so Mark could finish his chemotherapy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer center.
After successful treatment, Mark is officially cancer-free. Following the incredible news, Dima was eager to enroll Mark in something important to him as soon as possible- swimming. Having heard about Asphalt Green’s swim programs in an article, he reached out to us to see if we could help get Mark in the pool.
“When Mark was younger, I dreamed of him learning to swim. We’re a tall family, and I believe swimming helps with fitness and body development. I want Mark to be in good shape, and swimming is one of the best ways to achieve that. I'm also glad that he’ll gain the skills to feel confident swimming anywhere in the world. You never know how life might change, and I want him to be ready for anything.”
Last week, Mark had his first swim lesson with us at Battery Park City, and we had the opportunity to speak with Dima about his journey.
How did you learn about Asphalt Green’s swim programs?
I read an article about your swimming program and loved it. I wanted my son to be a part of your team. Right now, our family can’t afford the enrollment fee, so I reached out. I didn’t expect a reply, but you answered and offered us this incredible opportunity. It's amazing that even though you hadn't met us, you believed in us and opened your hearts to our family. We are so grateful.
What are you hoping Mark can get out of our swim program?
What I hope for, beyond just learning to swim, is that Mark will gain discipline. When I was younger and took classes, my coach became like an uncle to me—someone I trusted and who had a positive influence on my life. I hope Mark finds a mentor like that here, someone who can teach him both skills and life lessons. I also hope that Mark will make new friends. I’ve seen the community here, and the kids seem great. Mark just started kindergarten, and I believe he’ll build friendships here in the swimming classes as well.
What were your first impressions of our community here at Asphalt Green?
The first thing I noticed here is how unbelievable the staff is. From reception to the coaches, everyone is so friendly and welcoming. The way they work with the kids is remarkable—they give attention to each child equally. The pool is amazing too—big, clean, and new. Overall, it’s a wonderful facility, and the people who come here are very fortunate.
As the Negoduiks continue to start their new lives here in New York City, the pool remains a place of comfort, showing how swimming transcends borders and boundaries, and helps people find joy and community wherever they are.
“We’re so happy to start a new life, and we're grateful to be here with you,” said Dima. We hope to soon have a new swimmer in our family.”