Childhood should be about play, laughter and learning. But for some children, life starts with challenges that leave deep traces – both physically and mentally. This is the story of a six-year-old little girl who, despite health problems, became the driving force behind a technological solution that today gives children all over the world a better childhood. Her life inspired the development of Tidewave Junior – a mattress that changes more than just lying position.
A life at a standstill – and the consequences
Most of us take it for granted that our bodies move naturally during the night. But for this girl, the situation was completely different. Due to reduced mobility, she remained still for a long time while she slept. This led to a dangerous accumulation of mucus in the lungs. Every morning started with a dramatic routine: the mother had to manually suck mucus out of her daughter’s airways – a process that was both physically and emotionally demanding for both of them.
Even with the help of caregivers who tried to put her to bed during the night, the situation was far from ideal. Changing position created restlessness in their sleep, and many people are reluctant to wake up a child who has finally fallen asleep. The result was sleepless nights and exhausted days – for the whole family. And for the girl herself: a childhood marked by health limitations and a body that never had the peace to recover.
Childhood deserves better
It was precisely this everyday life that ignited the spark in the developers behind Tidewave. The family needed a solution that not only took care of the body, but also respected the child’s need for safe and undisturbed sleep. They asked themselves: Can we develop something that moves the body automatically, without waking the child? Can we give this girl – and many others – a better childhood?
The answer was Tidewave Junior – a groundbreaking device that mimics gentle, continuous movement throughout the night. The mattress is designed to prevent mucus accumulation and pressure ulcers, while giving the child peace, sleep and recovery.
A new start – for one little girl, and for many others
The six-year-old girl became the very first in the world to use Tidewave Junior. From the first night, the difference was noticeable. For the first time in many years, she woke up refreshed, without the need for suction. The mother could face the day with a whole new sense of security – the knowledge that her daughter had slept through the night, breathed freely, and woke up with a smile.
” The mornings that had once started with sucking now started with something better: clean lungs and a rested smile,” says Andreas Smith, Chief Technology Officer at Tidewave.
This was more than a medical advance—it was the start of a new childhood. A childhood that is all about freedom, security and breathing. For both the child and the parents, this meant a new life.
Technology with heart
What makes Tidewave Junior unique is not only the technology – but the intention behind it. The movement in the mattress is designed to be as gentle and natural as possible, so that children are not woken up by the changes. The system works in the background, quietly and continuously, like a caring hand that keeps the body moving while the mind is allowed to rest.
Communications Manager at Tidewave, Cecilie Huynh, puts it this way:
– “It is inspiring to experience how Tidewave has affected the quality of life of this family. All children deserve the best childhood possible.”
This value lies at the heart of everything Tidewave does. It’s not just about function and health – it’s about giving children the opportunity to grow up with as few limitations as possible.
A childhood that inspires others
The story of the six-year-old girl is not only touching – it has also become a driving force for further development. Her experiences and needs inspired the development of Tidewave Junior, which now helps children with similar challenges across the country – and soon, hopefully, worldwide.
Since its launch, many families have shared similar stories. Children who now get to sleep through the night. Parents who finally dare to breathe a sigh of relief. Healthcare professionals who report improved lung function, better circadian rhythm and less need for emergency treatment. This is the effect of giving children safe and active sleep – night after night.
We want to hear your story
At Tidewave, we believe in the power of shared experiences. When families talk to each other, when we listen to healthcare professionals and when users have a voice – then the solutions become better. We would love to hear how Tidewave Junior has affected the childhood of your child, or someone you love.
Share your story with us, and become part of the Tidewave community. Together, we can give more children a childhood in motion – where sleep means rest, not rest. Where the nights give strength to the day. And where technology creates security, so that children can be exactly what they are: children.
Childhood is about more than just age. It’s about opportunities, dreams and care. With Tidewave Junior, we help give more children an easier start in life – one movement at a time.
