In the process of pulling together the SUDS year-end review, we were sent the following which we believe sums up everything the SUDS program represents.
I’m probably different than 99% of divers on the planet. To the casual observer, they might surmise that I’m a disabled veteran with an amputated leg and that’s how I’m different, but that’s not how I’m different. I’m different because I look forward to the surface interval. Yes you read that correctly, I look forward to the portion of the dive when we’re all sitting topside. Of course, it all depends on who I’m diving with; and that’s why SUDS is so important to me and my continued wellbeing.
If you’re reading this you probably already know that Soldiers Undertaking Disabled Scuba is an outstanding program, but you might not know all the reasons why. To the layman, SUDS provides an outstanding recreational activity to physically disabled veterans who often bear very obvious symptoms of physical trauma. However; whether it’s an amputated limb, traumatic brain injury, or significant burns and scars; these physical wounds are oftentimes miniscule when compared to the effects of traumatic psychological wounds veterans have to balance each day.
Many disabled veterans attend traditional therapy sessions, both physical and psychiatric, in a formal setting that provide a multitude of methods for veterans to cope with their “new normal.” Psychological trauma is commonly treated with a therapeutic protocol involving prolonged exposure (PE) therapy to address the traumatic memories that manifest as PTSD. There are often several roadblocks to success in PE therapy: one is increased anxiety levels caused by discussing past events, another is reluctance to share experiences with non-combat veterans. These roadblocks often compel veterans into avoidance behaviors where they withdraw from social interactions and relegate themselves to a more solitary existence.
Quite simply, participating in the SUDS program enables disabled veterans to confront limitations from physical disabilities, as well as PTSD, head-on. It’s not only the diving that provides a benefit either; from traveling to the dive location via commercial air, engaging in social interaction with program supporters, dining in busy restaurants, or even the regimented itinerary of 4 to 5 days of scheduled events, every aspect of the SUDS program plays in an important part in the disabled veteran’s rehabilitation. Personally, I find the surface interval the most beneficial aspect of the SUDS program.
I look forward to the surface interval because my anxiety level is relatively nonexistent. I’ve just completed a 30-45 minute dive where I’ve experienced the freedom of being underwater, where my physical disability is diminished to virtually nil. The underwater environment is quiet, peaceful, and devoid of stress. It’s a place where I’m relaxed, focused on my breathing, and enjoying the natural environment around me. When I come to the surface at the end of a dive I feel great, almost a state of euphoria, feeling like my old self, absent of all anxiety.
Back on the boat, the surface interval conversation oftentimes centers on past military experiences between the veterans. These are conversations I would normally avoid, but that I wholeheartedly enjoy now after being in the SUDS program for the last two years. What I’ve come to understand is that a great deal of my aversion to social interaction is due to PTSD induced anxiety. Scuba virtually eliminates the anxiety and during the surface interval I can share openly and talk about past traumatic events that are normally stressors. Even if the conversation becomes a bit overwhelming I am able to deal with a higher level of distress because I know there’s a second dive to accomplish.
Time for the second dive. The ordered and disciplined donning of my scuba gear refocuses my attention on the task at hand. Back in the water I’m again focusing on the decent, equalizing, breathing, and slowly the anxiety diminishes once again. I’m enjoying the peacefulness of the dive and reflecting on how truly great my life is and becoming lost in the awesomeness of the experience. There’s no activity that gives me this feeling of relief; not lifting weights, swimming, driving fast, or martial arts. Diving is where I find peace.
I will be forever thankful for SUDS introducing me into the world of scuba. Scuba has changed my life and makes me a better person. Each dive trip I’ve participated in has challenged me to function outside of my reduced comfort zone and has allowed me to expand the boundaries of my “new normal.” I have the deepest respect and gratitude for Pat Duffy, John Thompson, Walt Novak, Danny Facciola, and all the folks who work hard to make the SUDS program happen. Without a doubt, SUDS supporters are some of the finest Americans I have ever met. They are a large group of selfless, patriotic, and genuinely caring individuals. I could have never imagined strangers opening their hearts and their homes to a group of disabled veterans without reservation the way SUDS supporters do.
It’s often said that veterans need to hear a “Thank You” to know that the sacrifice of their service was appreciated. I’d like to reverse that and say “Thank You” to the myriad of hardworking Americans I’ve met over the past 2 years who find it in their heart to donate their time, money, and effort to keep the SUDS program up and running. All of your contributions, no matter how small, are greatly appreciated more than you could ever imagine.
