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AT 62yo, SHE IS YOUNG AT HEART

WHAT STANDS OUT IN OUR PLAYGROUND

Published on June 2022

In another role, which is not production related, I am a qualified  Divemaster and Adaptive buddy for a diver with a disability. I am so blessed to have this opportunity.

Jayne B of 1 to 1 Support Coordinationof is 62 years young with 2 grandchildren and has a tethered spinal cord, occulta spinal bifida.

She is also a scuba diver and it's been a great joy to be her buddy along with Joseph, her extraordinary land support.

This was Jayne's 9th dive, our 5th dive together. Since dive one, I was so amazed at her enthusiasm to be a better diver and how fast she mastered her buoyancy despite having less mobility.

On this dive, my o-ring decided to blow up 2 meters underwater. I indicated Jayne to surface and asked to her to turn off my tank. She calmly did, then we slowly made our way back to the shore, repaired the tank and back in.

Overcoming this challenge together calmly is how we become  better divers. I called it an educational dive. Having a problem underwater is stressful for any new able bodied diver, even more so for a diver with a disability so I am very proud of her.

Folks, diving is an inclusive sports for any ability. It is also an excellent way to improve mental wellbeing. Do give it a go!

Sylvi

Sylvi Soe

AUTHOR

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