Nina – Down syndrome / Fumi – Car accident survivor

<< Please drag the arrows to see before & after underwater transformation >>

My name is Fumiko Takatsu (Calanchini), 56 years old, born and raised in Fukuoka, Japan, now living in Sacramento, CA. My daughter is Nina Calanchini, 14 years old, born in Woodland, California, and currently living in Sacramento, CA with my husband, Henry and me.

Fumiko, what type of survivor are you, and what were the side effects?

In 2003, at the age of 35, I was involved in a near-fatal car accident while vacationing in California. The trauma from the accident left my face and body misaligned, and I began suffering from massive headaches that impacted my daily life.

What type of disability does Nina have, and what are her abilities?

Nina was prenatally diagnosed with Down syndrome, but that has never defined her.

Her greatest ability is her willingness to try new challenges—whether it’s new activities or foods. She has been doing gymnastics since she was four and now attends two different gymnastics studios. She also takes tap dancing, ballet, Yoga and martial arts, and she’s an artist who loves painting.

As her mother, I’ve always had high expectations, believing she should be pushed outside her comfort zone rather than being overprotected because of her special needs. From ages 3 to 12, she attended a private Montessori school, and that foundation has shaped who she is today—curious, adventurous, and resilient.

What inspired you both to join the Underwater Transformation Project?

I asked Nina if she wanted to join the project, and her reason surprised me.

She was still processing the loss of our dog, Duffy, who drowned last summer in a tragic accident. She told me she wanted to participate in the project to “feel better about the incident.” She had been carrying sadness and guilt, and this felt like a way to heal.

What were your goals for the photo shoot?

Nina: I was excited but also a little nervous because it was my first time doing something like this. But I loved it!

Fumiko: It exceeded my expectations. Sharing this experience with Nina and watching her give it her all made me feel incredibly proud and joyful. Physically, it was much harder than I expected—moving underwater is no joke! But the challenge made it even more rewarding.

How was the experience of the underwater portrait session?

Nina: It was amazing! I preferred the solo shoot over the duet.

Fumiko: It was challenging yet deeply fulfilling. Moving underwater required me to completely surrender—I couldn’t force anything. Watching Nina adapt, flow, and embrace the moment was beautiful.

How did you feel afterward?

Nina: I felt so good and happy! I felt like a real teenager because I have a teenager attitude! I also felt like a dolphin and could sense the vibrations in the water.

Fumiko: I felt accomplished. I also realized that ego has no place underwater—I originally thought I could move effortlessly, but the reality was different. I had to let go and trust the water. It was a powerful lesson.

What does WATER mean to you?

Nina: It’s cold but makes me happy! I just want to jump in!

Fumiko: It’s where we all belong—especially saltwater, where I feel the most free.

How did you sleep the night of the shoot?

Nina: My eyes hurt a little, but I slept so well and felt grateful.

Fumiko: I had several interesting dreams, though I can’t remember them. I don’t know if I slept deeply, but the next morning, I felt refreshed, calm, and grounded.

How was working with Erena?

Nina: She was lovely, fun, and super creative! I want to do it again.

Fumiko: I loved working with her—not just because of her skills but because of her passion and motivation behind this project. Listening to her personal journey and hearing her speak about her connection to water in person was so powerful.

Would you recommend the Underwater Transformation Project to others?

Nina: Yes! I want to do it again.

Fumiko: Absolutely. The experience of feeling free in the water, of surrendering ego, was eye-opening. It made me realize that while I control my body, I also have to let go and trust the water (the universe). It was a profound and humbling experience.

What are your dreams?

Nina: I want to be a mermaid and swim like one!

What’s your goal for your Face Yoga practice?

Fumiko: My goal is for every Face Yoga practitioner to realize their power—to know that they can change their face and their life.

Through Face Yoga, we start having a deep conversation with our face, body, and mind. And from there, we understand that happiness begins within—and no one can take that away.

We create our own reality, no matter what.

Fumiko, what do you want to tell other mothers of children with special needs?

Enjoy. Life is precious, and nothing stays the same. Don’t spend too much time worrying about the future—because that means you’re missing the present.

This moment, right now, is a gift. And having a child with special needs? That’s an incredible gift that will enrich your life in ways you never imagined.

Nina, what do you want to tell other people with special needs?

Have fun! You can do all kinds of things—so go for it!

Please contact Fumiko to find out more about Face Yoga Method!