Can You Dive If You Have Cerebral Palsy and You Are Blind?
DIVEHEART Says Yes!
My name is Ashley and I am 27 years old. I first got introduced to
diving and Diveheart in 2008. From the very first time in the pool, I
knew this was definitely for me. It felt amazing and freeing. I have
cerebral palsy and when I’m in the water I feel better. Like I’m freed
from my physical challenges.
Additionally, I am blind. But using the special mask for diving, I can
see things much more clearly underwater. The colors are more
vibrant and the sea life is very beautiful.
After diving in the pool a few times I decided to get certified as an
open water diver. In August 2008 I went on my first life changing
scuba trip to the Florida Keys with Diveheart.
I couldn't believe I could dive in the ocean. The sights on the different dives were so amazing. My last dive of that trip was an hour long; one that still
sticks out in my mind years later. By the end of that life changing trip
I was an certified open water diver.
I was so used to people that would struggle to see past my disability
and see me as just a normal person just like you. But with Diveheart
that was never a problem. They saw me for me and not my
differences. They have always told me I can do something instead of
you can't. They call it the can-do spirit.
They helped to make me a brave, courageous, indpendent, strong, out-going person.
They changed the way I see myself. I will never be the same.
I look forward to every opportunity to dive now.
Who would have known that one night just trying diving in a pool would take me on such an adventure and change my life forever?
Written by Ashley Hoffman from Channahon, Illinoid
Another Diveheart Journey: Imagine the Possibilities Underwater has to Offer Disabled Individuals
To read more inspiring Diveheart stories and imagine the possibilities please visit www.Diveheart.org