Scuba Divers Feel Freedom at First Dive

A group of physically challenged recreation enthusiasts were treated to a free SCUBA diving clinic in the Pompano Beach, Florida, courtesy of the Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) First Dive^TM and hosted by the nearby U.S. 1 Scuba and owner Pete Pallotta.

"For scuba diving the south Florida region is ideal, and we received tremendous support from our volunteer instructors and even the underwater dive rescue team of the Pompano Beach Fire Department," said Robin Burton, executive director for OPAF. "We work with a variety of physical disabilities, including amputees and those with spinal cord injury and neuron-muscular disease, but each disability is different so our level of instruction is tailored to meet the needs of the individual."

According to Burton, the instructors began by asking a series of questions to the participants and then educated them on the various pieces of equipment they would be using. Instructors then went over the safest way to enter the swimming pool for the underwater instruction.

"I am a paraplegic who has been paralyzed from just below my shoulders since the age of 21," participant Dave Rafter said. "Anytime I can get into a pool it feels wonderful, but the challenge is always getting from my wheelchair into the water. Fortunately, the swimming pool at the Pompano Beach Aquatic Center features a Portable Aquatic Lift (PAL), which made things much easier for all of us."