Diving with Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics was a transformative experience. From start to finish, their inclusive approach and expert guidance stood out. This is an organization dedicated to ensuring everyone, regardless of their ability, can explore the underwater world with confidence and safety.The team of volunteers at Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics was exceptional. They were not only knowledgeable and experienced divers but also compassionate and patient. They tailored the experience to suit my unique needs, ensuring I felt comfortable and supported. The equipment provided was top-notch, and they took extra care to make sure it was suitable for a diver with my specific needs.What truly impressed me was their commitment to accessibility. They have clearly invested in the right training and resources to make diving a reality for everyone. It was inspiring to see the joy and sense of achievement on the faces of fellow divers as they experienced the beauty of the ocean.I highly recommend Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics to anyone looking for an inclusive, professional, and unforgettable diving adventure. Five stars all the way!
I truly appreciate the professionalism and support that the Aquanauts team showed during my PADI dive course! I am a disabled Veteran with a documented back injury and I had concerns about my ability to participate in the course. The dive instructor, Worth O’Brien, and all of the dive masters were patient, knowledgeable, and very helpful at alleviating those concerns. It was an outstanding experience that I would highly recommend Aquanauts Scuba Academy to anyone interested in diving whether they are just starting out or seeking additional certifications! Book the course. You will not be disappointed!
Hi my name is Damon a disabled amputee still on the road of recovery. I’ve been going to Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics to assist in my recovery ❤️. The dive masters and fellow divers are knowledgeable and willing to assist those in need. I recommend Aquanauts for adventure and to get back into shape.
I just had to share how absolutely thrilled I am to have been a part of this amazing group for over 2 years now! We’re all about lending a helping hand to so many individuals, especially vets with disabilities, and honestly, every single person who needs a little boost—whether it’s physically or mentally. It’s been such a rewarding journey, not to mention all the fantastic things I’ve learned and the extra certifications I’ve snagged along the way. Plus, the friendships I’ve built are simply priceless! If you’re looking for a way to make a difference, I highly encourage you to consider donating to this incredible cause; they truly can’t keep doing the awesome work they do without our support! Let’s spread the love! ✨
"Participating in the adaptive SCUBA program was an unforgettable experience. I had the chance to help a young girl, and together we dove into the water, feeling like mermaids. It was amazing to see her joy and empowerment as we explored the pool. This program not only teaches the skills of diving but also fosters meaningful connections and helps participants overcome barriers. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you for this wonderful experience!"
I am blessed to be able to be a part of something the brings so much joy. SCUBA Diving is an empowering and uplifting experience that connects people within the community. The healing power of SCUBA Diving is unrivaled, and I look forward to serving the community through these programs for another decade.
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Blast from the past and a little background on a key reason why I, personally, wanted to help make these programs happen.
Back in 2010, I met this gentleman. He was 13 years old at the time. Aquanauts SCUBA Academy was donating services, time, and equipment to run a Discover SCUBA Diving event for the kids with disabilities that were with the Boys and Girls Club in Pompano Beach. This gentleman, living with spina bifida, was SO happy and so free with the break from his wheelchair and the joy of the water activity. Just doing the pool activity made him absolutely GLOW he was so excited. After the event, we could not find him as for privacy reasons, Boys and Girls club would not release contact information and the phone number -no email- was illegible on the liability waiver.
At the time, our would be Chief Operating Officer was already volunteering with other veteran programs. Unfortunately, those programs in my opinion were not observing the necessary safety standards for SCUBA. Also, none of the programs were serving civilians with disabilites, only veterans. As a result, he and I decided to make our own program. It was officially put into place in November 2013 with our for profit businesses (AQUANAUTS SCUBA ACADEMY and PRECIOUS PAWS MOBILE SALON) as the only sponsors.
As rough as it can get sometimes doing these programs on an all volunteer basis, the tasks pile up and you feel like you cannot reach enough people, or do not do enough for the people that you do serve. It helped my heart to see that he found us and he is now getting his Open Water SCUBA Certification at 26 years old, and he can be reintroduced to the joy and freedom found in the ocean.
Thank you to all the dive volunteers who are there to make these activities available, safe, and fun for people like this young man who need this joyous and inclusive activity. The freedom to be found underwater is empowering. Without YOU (community, foundation, corporate and individual donors and program supporters, program volunteers, this would not be possible. Again, THANK YOU.
In a world full of bubbles, some reach higher depths and few take you diving into more joyful and positive experiences.
The Aquanauts scuba academy has been positively influencing and brightening the lives of
countless Veterans and individuals with disabilities through their non profit programs and the caliber of individuals they curate to express this passion. They have a long-standing track record of making a difference in the lives of those they reach and strive to expand their circle of influence, events and outreach every year.
I’ve been personally blessed to be part of this movement for Good for the past seven years and couldn’t feel more lucky and proud of the results and memories. Check them out or even better join us and make a difference.
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I can personally attest to the difference and the cut above in professional experience, personal dedication and care that goes into creating every event, I’ve only been part of this legacy for almost 4 year, but they have been in business for decades and it’s evident why…meticulous, and caring. I Highly recommended the Aquanauts Adaptive program.
I started with this organization doing their Discover Scuba for Veterans.. After a couple of events, I was moved by what this program does for Disabled Veterans and the civilian side as well. Not only does this program give individuals the opportunity to participate in Scuba dives to promote self worth and achievement, it gives what I think is most important. A social group and community to identify with to help cope with individual struggles and emotional well-being. The members of this organization are truly dedicated to supporting all individuals who choose to get involved. I can't begin to fathom the amount of time they dedicate in support of their mission.. Makes my heart smile. An outstanding organization pitching in to help fulfill President Abraham Lincoln's promise to our Nation's Veterans.
I wanted to add photos, but upload size is only 3 MB. I do not know how to make smaller.. Bummer.
Fantastic group. As a local USMC veteran I struggled finding the time to commit to learning SCUBA. Aquanauts was patient and worked with my schedule to make it work. The instruction is top-notch and makes even the most novice/apprehensive students feel at ease underwater. Organizationally they are a lot better than many veteran non-profits and continue following up to make sure the vets don't slip through the cracks.
In addition to the top-notch instruction Aquanauts provides, they have also fostered a supportive community and host events that bring veterans together where we can experience the same camaraderie we had in the military. It's really amazing to see how this organization positively impacts so many veterans and sets a high bar with all they do. Their instructors, administration and volunteer staff are passionate about their roles, and give so much to their veteran students. You won't find a SCUBA non-profit in South Florida that does more for the veteran community than Aquanauts. THANK YOU!
Im a U.S.Air Force, i had a knee injury, but i love sports but can’t do high impact, now because of that, thru Aquanauts i was able to get back on sports and at the same time it open up an adventure that i never thought was posible, its so relaxing and beautiful to be in the sea, its another world down there, it has help me relax and be part of something great, it all because of you that help this to happen, a miracle a new beginning an opportunity to be back to sports, to to feel part of something, to be able to do things, thanks Aquanauts and all of the team to be so special in every life you help. Thanks for me you have change all and i will apréciate this for ever.
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It was a wonderful experience it open up a world that you cant even imagine, you know is out there and may see it in aquariums or movies, but never like this, to be able to breath and relax under water to see the magnificent creatures of the sea is amazing, i recommended to everyone to try it, you will fall in love with it as I did, Instructor O'Brian is excellent at teaching and make the experience even greeter to have, I know I'm going to keep scuba and i hope i see you there as well, thanks to the AQUANATUS TEAM see you guys soo, SCOOBA DOOBA....
serena3 10/26/2021
Thank you for taking your time to share your story. It is much appreciated.
Meeting and diving with Gabriel George was a great experience.
He’s a Navy medic, who was in a motorcycle accident, and had a lotta damage to the right side of his body.
On our first dive day together, I lent him my camera on the second time and he took 168 pictures. that was in August. Later that year on Veterans Day, I dove with Gabriel again I was talking to him about how things were going. he said he enjoyed the photography and he had been trained to do photography above the water. He took that experience and took up archery.
About a year and a half later, he came down and we went diving at the blue heron bridge in West Palm Beach. He said that Diving in as little as 20 feet of water increase pressure on his body relieves all the pain that he has from the traumatic injuries. he had no use of his right arm after the accident. About two weeks after we did that dive together, he chose to have the arm amputated. I recall the next day he posted on Facebook that now he truly was the one armed archer.
Gabriel had just missed qualifying for the Paralympic games. He has competed in the Invictra games in England. Please check the event name.
There is multiple pictures of him sitting and talking with members the royal family at different events.
Gabriel continues to inspire people around the world. He teaches and competes and Pickleball. Competes in sailing events and as a snowboarder.
Submitted by Tim Fernan, SCUBA Santa. HSA dive buddy and adaptive ski instructor. US Air Force and disabled vet.
Aquanauts is selflessly run by Serena and Worth (a Marine corps veteran) to help veterans with disabilities, including PTSD and amputations, adapt to life in society after leaving the service. It truly is a labor of love for them and they’ve helped countless veterans while shouldering most of the burden themselves. As a donor, I’ve witness and immense impact on the happiness and well being of the individuals Aquanauts serve, who are also frequently forgotten by the country they sacrificed so much for.
Many thanks to Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics for presenting fantastic opportunities
by making these valuable programs available
to our community of Veterans and the disabled!
As a Vietnam veteran I've struggled with PTSD, ADD, and anxiety, and I have really benefitted from the wonderful therapeutic effects of scuba diving as It has reduced my symptoms, improved my sleep, and has given me new enhanced meaning to life! The peacefulness and serenity that Scuba Diving provides has enabled me to enjoy and celebrate life, and has literally been a lifesaver for me in many respects!
I'm very grateful for our wonderful cohesive, supportive community of dive buddies, Ambassadors, sponsors and benefactors that make this all possible!
As a Certified Handicapped Scuba Association Dive Buddy, I derive a lot of joy and satisfaction in working with our adaptive divers!
To see the smiles on their faces, and to hear their stories of their experiences and the marine life that they encounter as they freely drift and float, unencumbered by their disabilities is truly priceless!
I really enjoy attending the pool sessions, the shore dives and the boat dives and assisting divers with special needs and realizing the joy they experience while in the water, free of their disabilities! To see the smiles on their faces and to hear their stories is truly a gift!
I've had the honor and the pleasure of taking all my diving courses with Aquanauts and serving as a certified buddy diver for the disabled, and I can attest to the fact that Scuba Diving has literally been a lifesaver for me!
diverse.
I believe these valuable programs give us the chance to not only bond with nature's marine environment, but also our fellow veterans, not only on the dive boat and in the water, but at the post- dive social functions such as meals where we share our stories about our challenges and our accomplishments about overcoming our physical and emotional limitations! Through discussions with my fellow veteran divers, I have found that we all share the belief that these programs lift us up and help us fight depression, boost self- esteem, and are most certainly effective at Suicide Prevention!
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Many thanks to Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics for presenting fantastic opportunities
by making these valuable programs available
to our community of Veterans and the disabled!
As a Vietnam veteran I've struggled with PTSD, ADD, and anxiety, and I have really benefitted from the wonderful therapeutic effects of scuba diving as It has reduced my symptoms, improved my sleep, and has given me new enhanced meaning to life! The peacefulness and serenity that Scuba Diving provides has enabled me to enjoy and celebrate life, and has literally been a lifesaver for me in many respects!
I'm very grateful for our wonderful cohesive, supportive community of dive buddies, Ambassadors, sponsors and benefactors that make this all possible!
As a Certified Handicapped Scuba Association Dive Buddy, I derive a lot of joy and satisfaction in working with our adaptive divers!
To see the smiles on their faces, and to hear their stories of their experiences and the marine life that they encounter as they freely drift and float, unencumbered by their disabilities is truly priceless!
I really enjoy attending the pool sessions, the shore dives and the boat dives and assisting divers with special needs and realizing the joy they experience while in the water, free of their disabilities! To see the smiles on their faces and to hear their stories is truly a gift!
I've had the honor and the pleasure of taking all my diving courses with Aquanauts and serving as a certified buddy diver for the disabled, and I can attest to the fact that Scuba Diving has literally been a lifesaver for me!
Where can I start? The Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics organization has truly benefited me personally and many many more others who have had their lives changed forever by the experience of “Aqua therapy “. Whether it’s spending time in the pool with snorkeling or scuba gear on or in the ocean practicing the tools and techniques that they have been taught, to the amazing volunteers that are genuinely passionate and dedicated to helping others with disabilities learn and grow into being full fledged divers. I joined the Marine Corps and had to be medically discharged shortly afterwards. I always wanted to dive and eventually get certified as a scuba diver. Finding this organization from another former Marine was a godsend! I’m very pleased and proud to say not only am I now a certified diver but also Rescue Diver certified as well as HSA ( Handicap Scuba Association) certified and all of my training has been with and through Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics !! And I also volunteer my time, training and whatever else I can do to get back to this wonderful and much needed organization that truly gives back to the community ! The organization also uses our volunteers to help by promoting safe scuba diving as well as doing reef and beach cleanups. Working closely with other Adaptive organizations is also something that is stressed and done. I could go on and on about the great things that this organization does, but I’ll simply say that seeing firsthand and supporting the great people and organization is something that I highly recommend. At Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics, lives are being changed for the better and by supporting our organization YOU are also helping change someone’s life. Thank you!
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I was first introduced to the Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics program through getting dive certification through the Aquanauts Scuba Academy and my awesome instructor Mr Worth O’Brien. I was in the Marine Corp and he invited me out on one of the Aquanauts Adaptive dives where I was able to see firsthand the amazing job he and the program does for military and civilian people who have some form of a disability. Everyone is treated with the utmost respect and care. The volunteers love and enjoy helping others enjoy the beauty and experience of scuba diving. It is truly amazing how very therapeutic diving with his organization can be! I love it so much, I am now a volunteer myself!! Finding Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics has definitely changed my life and my outlook on helping and supporting others who could all benefit and enjoy the wonderful experience of diving with likeminded individuals all coming together with a great sense and love of the sport of diving. I encourage all walks of life whether you’re young , old, healthy or have a disability.. it’s never to late or a bad idea to join the Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics family!!
Me and my brothers and sisters will always be there for you! Join us and let’s go diving !
What a great group of fellow veterans and people that volunteer and dedicate their time to helping other in need. Mental health is such an important aspect of life. This organization helps reconnect our physical to our mental by providing a means of coping with our reality. I will be forever connected with them because of the wonderful experience they provide me and my fellow veterans. I initially connected with Aquanauts and drove four hours to do so. I felt so warm and comfortable with their organization and what they provide that I have brought two other veterans and my cousin to them. Thank you aquanauts!!!
My husband & I both went though the course for 3 days and the team was great to work with & put me at ease. I wanted to scuba for as long as I can remember but had some anxiety about it. I felt comfortable with Worth and the other dive instructors. I’m so glad we did this and can’t wait to further our training in the future!
There are no words to describe how thankful we are to Aquanauts, Worth and Serena O'Brien, and their amazing team for everything they have done to support our patients with limb loss in South Florida. From making our patients' dreams come true to learn how to scuba to overcoming the fear of getting back in the water, it has been fantastic to see so many lives transformed!
Aquanauts Adaptive Scuba Program has brought not only joy back to their lives as they learn to dive but as also helped them find new friends, independence and a super exciting recreational activity to do regularly.
The entire Aquanauts team is very professional and organized. Their teaching methodology supports all participants no matter their disabity while ensuring their safety at all times.
Worth and Serena O'Brien and the Aquanauts Adaptive program have expended the meaning of embracing a full life after limb loss for so many people. We are very thankful to all of them for all the lives they have transformed and all the fun they bring to their participants' lives as they learn how to dive into their new lives!
Liz
Hanger Clinic
AMPOWER South Florida
Engaging with Aquanauts Adaptive is a life enabling experience. SCUBA diving can possibly be the epitome of aqua therapy.
Instructor Worth and the Aquanauts provide more than just adaptive learning to SCUBA. The sense of camaraderie that exists within this community has assisted many of our fellow Veterans and those with disabilities with the enjoyment of living again.
I am a disabled Veteran, and like many within our community, have a multitude of debilitating issues. When I started with this group earlier this year, I was riding the tail wind of several years of negative life changing events. There no longer existed any sense of fulfillment, no sense of living, and having motivation… didn't exist, it couldn't be defined.
I found my life again within the vast ocean world, being able to exist away from all the noise of the world above surface. The peaceful serenity that once didn't exist is now only a step into the ocean away.
Now with the knowledge I've gained from this experience, I volunteer with Aquanauts Adaptive every opportunity I have available and am starting the Rescue Diver course. In addition I have aspirations of completing the Master SCUBA diving program and stepping into technical diving.
For me this was made possible by the unique style and methodologies Instructor Worth utilizes, to not only introduce but further advance those who seek out the SCUBA world with our family in Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics.
What an amazing organization! What better cause than to support our military disabled community by allowing them the opportunity to learn amazing skills thru the exotic and awe inspiring sport of scuba diving! All proceeds go to support this amazing team of volunteers! As a newcomer to the sport, I’ve felt that this organization prides itself on teaching the best skills to its students! Safety is always at the forefront! I wouldn’t dream of supporting anyone else in the industry! Keep up the great work guys!
Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics provides excellent service and extreme care for the safety of their divers so that you're able to have fun and enjoy! They are extremely professional, patient and caring to everyone's unique ability, skill, and level of comfort.
I'm so grateful to Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics, Inc. for not only providing me the opportunity to become certified scuba diver, but more for how the organization and the Aquanaut Ambassadors community of scuba diving volunteers have become part of my "framily" (friend/family).
I had attempted to learn how to scuba dive several years ago over a semester in college in the pool. Anxiety prevented me from completing the course and getting my certification. No one had worked with me to try to overcome my anxiety, but Aquanauts was different. Instructor Worth O'Brien was so compassionate and constantly demonstrates who he can adapt to the needs any the students who go through the program.
I am now proudly an Aquanaut Ambassador and Society member. Thank you so much Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics, Inc!
Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics is an amazing organization that has invaluable programs for Veterans and disabled!!!
It is an honor to be part of this organization as a Certified Handicapped Scuba Association Dive buddy. The friendships that have been created during the dives are amazing.
I am a disabled veteran and have been diving with Aquanauts Adaptive for a year. What a fantastic organization. They have provided me with the training to be a good diver and also given me the opportunity to assist fellow disabled persons in learning to dive. Having the opportunity to give back to my community is more valuable than i ever imagined.
If you’re lucky enough to be a diver or interested in diving in heavenly south Florida don’t miss out on an opportunity to experience the Aquanauts Adaptive experience with its founder and ambassadors.. Attentive, warm, gregarious, personal and consummately professional. Highly recommended!
As a veteran with PTSD as well as other mental health issues, I had always heard that scuba diving helped, and was extremely therapeutic. I did some research and came across “Discover Scuba” hosted by Aquanauts. I signed up and they were VERY responsive. I showed up for my first pool session. Thats when I met instructor Worth O’Brien for the first time. He was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and patient. I then asked how I could participate in more dives and become certified. Instructor O’Brien then told me about some upcoming dives they were hosting, so I signed up online and began diving with them regularly. I wanted to become certified and that’s when they informed me about the scholarships that they have. I applied for my BOW certification and was approved for a scholarship, which was extremely helpful. I completed the online course and the required dives and got my certification! Aquanauts has helped me tremendously with many things, they have helped me network with other veterans who also have disabilities, they have shown me a hobby that I can do to help with my personal disabilities, they have let me use their gear since I don’t have my own, they have invited me on many dives. I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from them. I would highly recommend that if you are new to diving, or even experienced, that you link up with them! Thank you Aquanauts!!
They are helping provide some relief from the duties of the land world and taking veterans and disabled folx out into the ocean for a mesmerizing experience.
Aquanauts is filled with incredible, hardworking dedicated professionals. They go above and beyond for those they service. When I had questions, they took the time to explain. My husband has service connected disabilities, but that does not stop the team from encouraging him to get involved. I've seen the magic first hand, it is life changing!! 10/10 recomend everything they do
They are amazing. They have help me with my disabilty challenging to push myself and I get to help my fellow veterans. Great community of people
I started volunteering with Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics a year ago, as a disability buddy diver. It's been fantastic to be able to introduce scuba diving to people with disabilities. They are very eager to learn and it's very rewarding to enable them to dive just like anyone - there is no disability underwater, just people enjoying the silent world and its wonders. Aquanauts is an incredible organization that really makes a difference! Leaders Worth and Serena deeply care about the mission, are incredibly kind and inspiring, and always willing to go the extra mile to make things happen. They're well organized, efficient and extremely professional. They invest a ton of their personal time and resources to this non profit, and they really deserve all the support they need! The team of volunteers is awesome as well - good people, great mission, 100% recommend!
Never had I ever scuba dived or imagined I'd ever have the courage to explore a new world, especially one where I was afraid of because of the unfamiliarity. Then I stumbled across Aquanauts Veteran Experience and figured after all the many years of being afraid of things, and being open to find an alternative therapy for my PTSD.
I have to say I am extremely grateful that when I decided to take the pluge to explore this new world I did it with Aquanauts. Instructor O'Brien is phenomenal at his craft, in teaching Individuals the basics all through master classes. I could not applaud and boast about such an outstanding program, organization and teacher.
Without a shadow of a doubt every interaction with this nonprofit is undoubtedly the most professional, interactive, fun-easy going experience and gets better with every occasion!! I love doing events with aquanauts adaptive aquanauts because there leadership is not only very knowledgeable on operational procedures but really gets to know the individual and there capabilities and limitations! Overall couldn’t be more happy with aquanauts adaptive aquatics!!
Aquanauts Adaptive is second to none. I have had the wonderful opportunity to experience this first hand. From your basic class to the more challenging advanced courses you will be guided by consummate professionals in a way that veterans could only appreciate and understand. I always say that they speak our language. From instruction to scheduling everyone there is dress right dress. They are the standard!
Three years ago I lost my right leg below the knee do to various medical issues. After a fairly long and painful rehab I was able to walk again with a prothesis. Being 65 years old I had only a small choice of activities to help improve my physical and more importantly mental health. Always being an active person who enjoyed playing various sports and activities, I was quite honestly becoming very depressed.
At some point one of my friends from the Amputee group I was involved in suggested scuba diving. Because of my love of swimming and the ocean this was a perfect suggestion. Now all I had to do was get over my fear of ever swimming in the ocean again, let alone scuba diving below it. It was this same person who suggested Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics. The name alone gave me hope.
After doing research on the organization, I scheduled an introduction to diving in a swimming pool. From the moment I arrived, I was warmly greeted and made to feel at ease by the Instructer Worth O’Brien. All the equipment was laid out for me and each step was professionally explained to me as I was helped on the scuba equipment. Within the first 5 minutes in the pool and actually breathing under water I realized I found a new love. I was so excited for the first time since my amputation that I had an activity that is giving me the physical and mental stimulation I craved. This class was a few hours and I received the basic knowledge needed to become a diver. Worth and his team helped me every step of the way giving me more and more confidence. But would I be able to use these new found skills in the ocean?
A few weeks later I had my opportunity. An ocean dive was scheduled for handicapped people and I decided to go. Although I was wildly nervous and doubted myself, I was reassured by Worth that I would have all the help and attention I needed
The entire point of this note is to tell what a life changing experience this was. To see the ocean life as never before was incredible. I felt elated!!
Most importantly I could never have done this without the team of Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics. Under the leadership of Worth O’Brien and his team, I felt completely at ease and safe with their professionalism. As importantly I introduced 2 other amputees to the world of scuba diving….All of this would not have been possible without this worthy organization. With their help I have passed my certification and have completed nearly 10 additional dives and will continue this new found love.
Mark Silverman
serena3 10/26/2021
We appreciate your taking the time to share your story. You are an inspiration to others that a change in physical dynamics is not an impediment to physical activity. Looking forward to seeing you in the water again soon!
On April 1st, 2008, I was involved in a nearly fatal motorcycle accident. 3 weeks later I woke from a coma to find out that my neck had been fractured in multiple places, I had a mild TBI, my right arm was paralyzed and I had multiple other injuries but I was alive. Years went by and after multiple surgeries and therapies I found myself isolated and living in chronic pain. To years ago I met someone with a similar injury and they mentioned to me that they received a lot of relief while being underwater.
After visiting my local dive shop and talking with an instructor, I decided to get certified. My first dive trip was with a veteran group that took us to the Cayman islands. During my 1st dive, I feel in love! Diving has been the greatest therapeutic relief that I’ve had in the last ten years. Physically I have little to no nerve/muscle spams while I am underwater. I feel like I breathe better while diving. Mentally my head is the clearest that it ever gets while I am underwater. Being able to tour and see these underwater worlds, it rejuvenates me wholly. Whether, I am diving with a purpose like cleaning up the ocean or lion fish hunts, to just enjoying reefs and marine life. Whenever I come out the water I am always physically, mentally, and spiritually relieved. I always look forward to my next chance to go diving. My goal is to become instructor certified and continue to help others discover the healing power of the ocean. I am VERY thankful for Aquanauts helping me to reach that goal!
As an Army Airborne Parachute Rigger and Platoon Leader in performing air delivery operations in Vietnam I returned home to try to fit into society and couldn't understand why I was having so much difficulty. I was withdrawn and isolated. I took a bartending class paid for by the GI Bill that encouraged me to be socially interactive I later realized I had the symptoms of PTSD but when I went to be evaluated by the Veterans Administration I was told I didn't have it bad enough to Merit getting into a therapy group.
I had to sleep with pillows between me and my wife for fear of injuring her during the night and I was triggered and startled by loud noises and helicopters.
Back in 2009 I met Worth O'Brien of Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics and became scuba certified and later became a certified buddy diver. I immediately realized the wonderful therapeutic effects that Scuba diving offered and the immense gratification and appreciation i experienced from helping my dive buddies experience the wonderful feeling of being free of their disabilities as we soared through the water unencumbered by our disabilities!
To see the smiles on their faces as they describe their diving experience with wonderment is truly rewarding and uplifting.
I personally have benefited by realizing the reduced effects of my PTSD and finding more inner peace and tranquility in this submergence therapy, and the comaraderie that we share with our fellow veterans is priceless! I sleep more peacefully and find my "triggers" are almost non- existent.
I am forever grateful to Aquanauts as they enable us to experience the therapeutic benefits of scuba diving as well as enriching our lives from all the wonderful friendships we forge in a bond of brotherhood as we all look out for a buddy divers and watch over our National Parks!
I am ALWAYS Proud and humbled to be in the company of my Brothers in Arms! We truely are blessed to have such great programs that enable us to share challenging, nurturing and healing experiences that continue to forge the bonds of friendship and comradery while contributing to the conservation of Our National Parks!
I went for a pool dive over the weekend. The ambassadors and volunteers were more than accommodating. Instructor O'Brien (Mr. Scuba Duba) was confident and knowledgeable about adaptive SCUBA. Safety is a top priority for all members. I never thought I would return to diving after my accident 8 years ago. The pool dive was enjoyable and a great environment to get down the basics (without waves and current). I look forward to joining Aquanauts on future dives. I appreciate all the support.
I have been a part of Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics from its inception. Having had personal experience with non-profits in the past I was extremely impressed with Serena and Worth's commitment to helping the disabled and our Veterans through the benefits of scuba. They spend an inordinate amount of time training volunteer and perform miracles for the disabled. I have been at several trainings, dives, and events and am constantly impressed at Worth and the volunteers patience and depth of knowledge and more importantly seeing the changes and exhilaration of the participants. These scuba experiences seem to make the participants come alive and forget their disabilities. This non-profit is run professionally and all efforts go to helping the disabled and Veterans. It is one of the finest young organizations I have been affiliated with. They deserve the highest praise for their work.
I'm a new volunteer, having everything squared away prior to diving take much of my anxiety away and allows me to relax and focus on safety and assisting others.
With the Aquanauts the attention to details and care is world class and the individuals I've met were so diverse and interesting.
I have been working with divers with disabilities for a decade now. It is wonderful to be a part of helping individuals with disabilities experience SCUBA Diving. SCUBA Diving is a phenomenally therapeutic activity. It is ideal to help individuals with spinal cord injury, PTSD, TBI, the list goes on and on. Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics understands the volunteers are their lifeblood and truly appreciate all their efforts in making every event a safe and fun time for the participants.
serena3 10/29/2018
We can't do it without you!
Aquanauts is alway involved in, not only, helping to keep out marine life safe and with a clean habitat, but also offering disabled veterans with an opportunity to get out into the ocean and provide them with a better quality of life!!!
serena3 10/29/2018
We appreciate you taking the time to post a review about our program. The more people hear about what we do, the more lives we can positively affect. Thank you.
Aquanauts is such an amazing organization! The care and compassion that they give to adaptive divers is so heartwarming. Aquanauts professionalisms and dedication to divers of all levels no matter there physical limitations just elevates us all as human beings.
serena3 10/29/2018
We are glad to have you as part of the Aquanauts family! Hope to see you soon.
This organization has taken me diving and made my dream come true over and over again since start. Without my scuba, I would go crazy dealing with people and life in general. You guys rock !!
serena3 10/29/2018
We miss you on the dives. Hope to see you in the ocean again soon! Your time in volunteering to help us spread awareness and make the events a success are greatly appreciated.
Previous Stories
Instructor O'Brien taught me to dive. His patience and extreme understanding for my abilities and disabilities gave me back the one place in which I'm truly free: the ocean. He then took it a step further and showed me how beautiful AND colorful the underwater world is at night. In each dive during the past 3 years he's slowly taught me how "control" is not something only found through physical strength, but also through my ability to trust and face challenges to the best of my capabilities. As a c4-c5 quad, that is not an easy lesson.
As if that was not enough, he made me an Advanced Diver, a learning experience that I'll never forget. .. How could I when I dove a wreck down at 110 ft deep... Another wreck at night seeing it come to life in a way that words cannot describe... Learning more about our environment and the wonders of marine life, among other things.
All I can say as I wrap up my babbling is that Instructor O'Brien (AND the dive buddies I've had the honor to dive with) are not only amazingly trained, but also made it a point to understand me as a person rather than a disability. Thanks to them I feel confident and free when I dive, forgetting how over 80% of my body does not work... I'm at 100% happiness as we submerge.
Scooba Dooba!!!
It is an honor and privilege to be connected with this organization. It is heartwarming to see the visible emotion and lightening of hearts when they experience this life-changing experience. Even more so knowing how much Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics is helping them!
serena3 10/29/2018
Without public donations from awesome people like you, we would not be able to make this program happen. Thank you for taking the extra time to post a review.
Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics has been an integral part of my recovery. Diving with them helped me cope with my PTSD/anxiety disorder symptoms and helped me deal with chronic pain, insomnia, depression, and agoraphobia. Aquanaut's method of teaching and sensitive approach to different forms of disabilities allows a sense of trust in the organization. Instructor Worth O'Brien's work ethic, extensive knowledge, experience, and professionalism are all amazing qualities exhibited through training. Aquanauts is solely dedicated to provide support and share the benefits of adaptive SCUBA with the intent to help others feel the power of control over their limitations. As an alternative to a myriad of other therapies, adaptive SCUBA provides a wholeness approach to healing and recovery. SCUBA provides a wonderful therapeutic tool that can provide relief to different disabilities or limitations. I strongly recommend Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics as a legit and professional organization working to provide effective services that work.
serena3 10/29/2018
Thank you. You are a wonderful volunteer. We appreciate you taking the extra time to share our mission with others and for taking a moment to write this in-depth review. We look forward to seeing you at the next event.
From a wheelchair to the water, from wondering to doing it, this organization has helped me realize my goal of getting into the water!
serena3 10/29/2018
Thank you so much for your support! We look forward to seeing you in the ocean!
Previous Stories
The experience, was completely amazing! It has been over 14 years since my last dive, and I was concerned about getting back into the water with my bad back. I met a bunch of others like me, to include a nice individual who has tried numerous times to scuba, but until that day has never made it deeper than 5 feet, but with Aquanauts she made it all the way to the bottom and spent a long time having fun to include summer-salts . The one-on-one training, friendly staff, and incredible fun atmosphere made it a truly amazing day. A friendly tip for those with facial hair. Trim the mustache to a #1 or bring some Vaseline with you. It helps keep the water out of the mask. A small container is more than enough. Thanks Aquanauts. You are truly the Best!
I've been diving since 1985 and this team is by far the most professional and knowledgeable I've been out with. I have two teenage sons who dive with me and the message of Worth's Team comes across "loud-and-clear"! Safety, Safety, Safety, and communications underwater! High quality rental gear and wet suits were ready to go. The Aquanaut Team reviewed our gear setup and made sure they answered all of our questions.
The Aquanaut Team provided us with the best diving experience since I learned to bottle-dive in Tampa Bay in the 1980's. We were briefed on what to look for and saw an abundance of sea life; schools of fish, sharks (only a Marine Recon Diver would show us how and invite us to pet a shark-even if it didn't have teeth), lobster, eels, and turtles.
Aquanauts and Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics are our Dive Team of choice.
Steve Kirtley
I have been diving with Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics for four years now. As a C7 incomplete quadriplegic adaptive diver, I always feel safe and comfortable while diving with AAA, AAA's founder Instructor Worth O'Brien and the competent trained buddy divers. Worth runs a fun tight ship. He is well aware of each diver and their needs and makes sure everything runs smoothly. He is an excellent instructor able to clearly present the material and make learning fun. I recently had the privilege of taking my AOW course with AAA. With the instruction and patient help of Worth and my skilled buddies, I was able to hone my skills and become a better diver diving to greater depths.
Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics, Inc, Instructor Worth o"Brien and the magnificent buddy divers make this nonprofit organizations one of the best in South Florida. Keep up the good work. Lets hear a loud and vigorous Scooba Dooba for AAA!!!
I was certified up to advanced open water with Insteuctor Worth O'Brien, and I have been present for many of the Adaptive Scuba dives. He is very professional and very educated in his field, with many years of experience. The Adaptive Sucuba program is an amazing opportunity for disabled people to be able to explore and be part of ocean adventures, it's a great opportunity to be part of a different world! Instructor Worth O'Brien helps divers believe that there are no barriers when it comes to diving and having fun doing it!
Hard to pick a place to start with this organization it's rare to find similar places with as must client care and consideration as this one. everyone was very professional and helpful I felt very comfortable as soon as I showed up, I give them 10/10 and recommend all my friends to go here I will def come back
This is a great program that has the potential to help many people with all types of disabilities. I have been fortunate in knowing Instructor O’Brien and applaud his work ethics, caring, and professionalism in this program.
For many years as a Volunteer finding an organization that is professionally operated has been very difficult to find. I am happy to say that working with AQUANAUTS ADAPTIVE SCUBA PROGRAMS has been a rewarding experience. All of the activities that I have participated in have been 100% sponsored for both participants and volunteers for scuba training, boat trips, and social events. Volunteers and participants have also had many opportunities to be involved with several similar organizations both out of state and local forming great relationships. I am proud to be part of such a universal organization!
I went through the open water course and have had the wonderful opportunity to have known the instructor, Worth O'Brien, for many years. His passion for helping those with disabilities is contagious. His patience and knowledge makes it for an amazing experience for the divers and gives them the freedom and confidence to do something they oftentimes didn't think was possible!
I have seen many of the wonderful programs conducted by Adaptive SCUBA programs, and they are uplifting to observe. this organization currently has no paid employees, and the funds go strictly towards items necessary for running the program.
What a great experience! Received the open water certification course for my birthday and could not have been more excited. The knowledge and personal attention I received from Instructor O'Brien was top notch. I now dive frequently and confidently thanks to Aquanauts.
My Father in Law was part of a similar nonprofit in NJ. It enabled him to participate in something active, while improving his morale, health and his entire outlook on his life after becoming disabled. A true blessing.
I personally know the people involved in this wonderful undertaking and am, also, a donor. I highly recommend Aquanauts Adaptive Aquatics!