Meet the Divers

Hometown (or where you dive most often): Fort Lauderdale
Certification Level (if any): Advanced Open Water

When did you first try scuba diving — and what got you hooked? My first time trying scuba diving was during a pool session with Scuba4Good back in 2019. Honestly, I wasn’t hooked right away. It took time for me to understand the concept of letting the equipment breathe for me underwater. For the first couple of months, scuba was a huge challenge both physically and mentally. But once I worked through that fear and trusted the process, it became absolutely incredible. Since then, I haven’t stopped diving, and I’m proud to say I’m now an advanced scuba diver.

What does being underwater mean to you? Being underwater is the most incredible sensation physically, mentally, and spiritually. Down there, it’s just me and the bubbles. It’s a space where I can mentally focus, reflect, and let go of everything happening on the surface. Scuba diving has helped me manage anxiety, stress, and even chronic pain. Before diving, I suffered from nerve pain and spasms, but since I started diving regularly, all of that has improved dramatically. The weightlessness, the pressure, and the freedom of movement underwater have become a true form of therapy for me a place of healing.

What stands out to you about the Grateful Divers Worldwide community? The people. Every single volunteer and staff member at GDW goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and safe. It’s more than just a dive community it’s a real family. They stay connected beyond the water with community activities like going to games, sharing meals, or just hanging out. It’s a group of friends who share the love of diving and life, and that’s what makes it so special to me.

What’s one dive you’ll never forget — and why? There are so many unforgettable dives, but two stand out the most. The first was my very first ocean dive with my instructor Brad. I was incredibly nervous and didn’t think I could do it, but his patience, kindness, and belief in me helped me push through. Experiencing the reefs of Pompano Beach that day changed everything.
The second was my first shark dive. Brad, who wasn’t a fan of shark diving, didn’t hesitate when I told him it was something I wanted to do. He immediately said, “I’m in,” and became my dive buddy that day. Knowing he stepped out of his comfort zone to support me meant the world. Without him, I don’t think I would’ve gotten in the water and I would’ve missed out on one of the most amazing experiences of my life. That’s what makes this GDW and its people so extraordinary.

What’s your dream dive location? Without a doubt — the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador.

What’s something surprising you’ve learned through diving? I’ve learned just how fragile our ocean ecosystem really is. I had no idea how much of an impact something as simple as sunscreen or makeup could have on coral reefs and marine life. Through this community, I’ve become more aware of the everyday products I use from what goes on my skin to how my lifestyle choices affect the ocean. I’ve been inspired to keep learning and making changes, because even one person can make a big difference. That has been one of the most eye-opening parts of my journey.

How has diving impacted your life, mindset, or connections with others?Scuba diving has completely transformed my life. It’s changed my mindset, brought healing to my body, and introduced me to a community of truly incredible people. I now have friends I can rely on, people who lift me up, and a sense of purpose that I didn’t have before. Whenever I’m having a tough day, all it takes is a phone call, and someone will say, “Let’s go diving.” The moment I hit the water, everything shifts mentally, physically, spiritually. Diving brings me peace, joy, and connection. It’s a passion I hope to carry with me forever.

Reef dive or wreck dive? Reef
Surface interval snack: Watermelon
Dive soundtrack: The Little Mermaid
Your underwater nickname: Hot Wheels 
Favorite marine animal to spot: Turtles