United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I am contemplating getting my son (RTBPI 5 avulsions, 2003) Scuba Diving lessons for his 28th birthday, we live in South Florida and would appreciate any kind of advice or tips in reference to Scuba Diving

I think it's a great idea - I was a long time scuba diver before my bike accident and recently returned. You need to plan your entry and exit from each dive eg: I jump or fall out of the boat to get in the water, when I return I remove my fins and then my BC and tank which is lifted onto the boat then I haul myself up the ladder with my good arm. I changed my regulator and secondary air supply to a single unit which does both and I control it with my right hand (good side). You can choose easy entry walk in beach style entry and exits also - If you join a dive club there will be plenty op people who will be more than happy to help him.

I purchased a surfboard legrope which I tied up to one of the lugs on my BC and wrap the velcro end around my wrist which holds it in place during the dive. Once you are in the water you can forget your arm and enjoy the dive because it is weightless and with a few adjustments you can dive as well as anybody.

Go ahead and do it - he will really enjoy it and if you can do it with him all the better!

Cheers John

Hey Steve,

Great idea I think! I haven't been since my injury but am itching to go, and am sick and tired of not making it happen. Must do!

There is a fellow BPI that posts here with the user name Dive Master Tom. Here are all of his posts to check his suggestions. You may be able to contact him directly from his user profile.

http://ubpn.org/forum/search.php?author ... 3&sr=posts

Cheers,
Christopher

I have been scuba diving with erbs of the left from birth for 30 yrs., I am a Padi Master diver with over 600 dives and been to over 20 islands sent 1981. I am on the private board if you need help? To get you started go to a web sight called ( dive heart) or ( scuba diving with disabilities) many dive shops train dives with limitations. Teenagers can get certified to, call your local dive shop.

Best wishes,

Master Diver Tom