Nina Bachich

What got you hooked?

I had my first pool dive with Aria and KG in 2022! I’ve always loved the water and was lucky to grow up next to the ocean, but once I became a wheelchair user, the ocean was a source of fear and uncertainty. My family are scuba divers, and I didn’t think I’d ever be able to get certified due to my disability. That changed when I met the Grateful Divers Worldwide team — they changed my life! There’s truly nothing like seeing a completely different world underwater and enjoying the serenity that comes with it.

What does being underwater mean to you?

I always found being below water so calming and a source of comfort. Scuba diving helped me create a world of peace underwater, where I could be weightless — a wheelchair user’s dream! — and lose myself a little. When underwater, I forget the reality of my disability and am free to explore the ocean without any restraints.

What stands out about the Grateful Divers Worldwide community?

The team is not only a group of standout individuals who volunteer their time to make my dreams a reality — they are truly like my family. I trust each team member wholeheartedly, both underwater and above. There’s no group more dedicated to adaptive diving, and I’m blessed to call them my friends!

A dive you’ll never forget?

My first shark dive with Tally and team in the Bahamas! It was thrilling to see hammerheads, tiger sharks, and bull sharks up close — I felt like I was in a movie!

Dream dive location?

Indonesia! (Team — let me know when we’re going on a trip!)

Something surprising you’ve learned?

Buoyancy! I learned the hard way that the tank gets lighter the less oxygen it has, and you need to deflate the BCD to maintain buoyancy, especially on the ascent.

How has diving impacted your life?

It made me realize my disability can’t stop me from living my dreams! My disability isn’t a big deal — it just makes the experience more interesting and unique.