My Nonprofit Reviews

From a wheelchair to the water, from wondering to doing it, this organization has helped me realize my goal of getting into the water!

I met Branson at Health South Hospital in Sunrise shortly after having a spinal cord injury. I was feeling like my life was over and my future was going to consist of laying in bed everyday. He came to a spinal cord injury support group meeting one night and told me if you willing when can get you scuba diving. I laughed because I didn't have much use of my arms or legs, he quickly replied you can do it and we can help. I thought about it for a couple of days and thought it can't get much worse for me so I called. He arranged for me to attend a discover scuba class where I was met by Branson and a wonderful group of trained buddy divers. After a few instructions and help of the buddy divers I was carefully put into a wetsuit and given lessons on using the equipment. They then carefully lower me into the water and attached all the equipment. The minute I hit the water and the weight was taken of my spine I felt relief . They pushed me through the water and my mind opened to a whole new way of having peace. Since that day I have found a love for the water and how it puts me at peace and heals my pain and mind. Branson continues to invite me for scuba trips and I have yet to say no. Branson and his group of buddy divers allowed for me to bond with my son through scuba diving, something I thought I could never do with my injury. This is truly a great programs that helps heal, but I have forged a group of new friends, some in worse shape then me but full of smiles every time we dive.

After a spinal cord injury, I thought my future was lying in bed for the rest of my life. This organization came to my rescue and taught me to work through my handicap and explore they ocean while experiencing the healing powers of the ocean, great caring individuals