Diving experience for youngsters with Down syndrome

16 Jul 2018No Comments

Every year, Mundo Acuático performs a social activity that involves scuba diving, for people who would normally and because of their particular conditions do not practice this sport.  In December of 2017, this task proved to be very particular; we introduce a group of athletes with Down syndrome to diving in a pool!  Of course, it was necessary to do a whole process in order to make this activity a success.

We started by visiting this group of teenagers at the Technological Institute of Costa Rica, the place where this group of hardworking athletes perform their trainings. After introducing ourselves, we proceeded to give them a talk about the meaning of diving, the required equipment for the activity, and the kind of animals that can be seen underwater, among other topics.

After giving this talk, we encourage them to evacuate their doubts; in fact, almost all of them had something to ask! They were very interested to know all about the submarine life.  The activity of the day culminated with the presentation of a full diving equipment, the explanation of its operation and the use of the diving controller to each one of the 18 youngsters who made up this group of athletes.  They were all excited about the diving day to come!

A week later, we met at the sports complex Forza Vital in Curridabat. All the youngsters came from Cartago in a bus, accompanied by their coach. In addition, family members who wished to participate as spectators came to the activity.

Diving in a pool

Now, to the water! That day the staff of Mundo Acuático was formed by 2 certified instructors, 3 divers specialized in submarine rescue, 1 photographer diver, 1 high performance swimmer and a paramedic diver of the Costa Rican Red Cross. Also, and just as a precaution, there were 2 paramedics and an ambulance, but fortunately their services were not required.

The activity took place without any complications. With the help of our partners, we managed that each of the athletes drop safely to the bottom of the pool to practice scuba diving for a while.

When all the new divers finished diving, we took them to a place near the pool and there, we gave them a medal that accredited them as new divers, and a bag with gifts as a reward for their effort.

Once the new divers were gone, we felt immensely happy for having contributed to their dream. In addition, they left us with a feeling of deep affection because they gave us a great humanity lesson, showing us that any barrier can be overcome.