PRESIDENTS MESSAGE:

It was not long ago that autism was relatively unknown to the general public. 

In recent years, organizations such as Easter Seals and Special Recreation Associations, and facilities such as rehabilitation hospitals have seen an increase in the number of individuals diagnosed as being autistic. 

At Diveheart we've had the opportunity to work with some very special autistic children and have found that scuba diving is an incredible means to enhance their level of communication. We feel certain that at some point in the future, medical research will support our claim that scuba is an excellent therapy. Until then, we will continue to see the results of our efforts in each child we work with, one by one. 

To give an example of this paradigm shift in communication growth, let me tell you about Derrick's experience.

Last summer Derrick was a participant on a scuba adventure trip hosted by Oceans for Youth Foundation http://www.oceansforyouth.org. Diveheart was invited to assist with the instruction and diver supervision. We worked with Derrick and saw an incredible change in him. It was amazing to discover that although Derrick was in 10% mainstream classes and 90% special classes before the trip, two months after returning home he had progressed to 90% mainstream classes and 10% special classes. His mother stated by e-mail that Derrick was so excited about scuba and eagerly wanted to communicate about his scuba experiences to others--a huge step towards participating in the mainstream!

Wow! Scuba did that? As divers, we know it's a powerful vehicle for bringing adventure into our lives and for helping to heal the spirit and elevate the soul.

Scuba is a perfect sport for those with disabilities, and the results can be amazing if we, as divers, have the compassion and the patience to help others discover what we already know.

Writer Dan Barrett captures these qualities in his story about Ashley, a young autistic girl, and her loving father and brother, both of whom went through special Diveheart H.S.A. (Handicapped Scuba Association) buddy training to help Ashley realize her dream of experiencing scuba.   

Jim Elliott
President of Diveheart

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Diveheart Newsflash Feature Story

Ashley and her diving story

By Dan Barrett

What's wrong with the world today? Many people might say it's the lack of communication. When we don't communicate properly, we have a greater chance of falling into prejudice and error. As divers we know how important good communication is. Potentially large problems are easily handled if we stay in contact with our buddies and have the proper signals ready to indicate any danger.

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