The underwater world just got a whole lot more accessible and therapeutic, thanks to a generous £5,000 award from the NAAFI Fund to the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (RCDM)! This fantastic funding is already making waves, allowing RCDM to replace and procure essential sub-aqua diving equipment. This means their vital Diving courses can continue to benefit not only Tri-Service personnel but also provide ongoing assistance to incredible Diving with the Injured expeditions.
The recent trip to the Maldives was an undeniable success: injured veterans, finding much-needed therapy in the serene embrace of the ocean, experiencing the wonders of marine life. This unique form of rehabilitation offers a sense of weightlessness, freedom, and an incredible connection to nature that can be profoundly healing.
But it wasn’t just the veterans who benefited, Diving with the Injured are also supporting service personnel who had the invaluable opportunity to reflect and unwind after what has undoubtedly been a very challenging year. The calming influence of the underwater environment, coupled with the camaraderie of the expedition, provided a much-needed break and a chance to recharge.
With their next adventure to Egypt rapidly approaching, the new equipment means the future looks bright for these expeditions. It ensures that RCDM can continue to build on the vital relationships forged during these trips, promoting resilience and rehabilitation for both injured veterans and serving personnel.
WO2 Nicholas McKenzie, RCDM said “A huge thank you to the NAAFI Fund for enabling Defence Medical Services Diving to update and renew vital equipment, making the latest Diving with the Injured expedition to the Maldives possible. Watching everyone experience the beauty of the ocean, swimming alongside whale sharks, oceanic white tip sharks, nurse sharks, manta rays, turtles, and witnessing the incredible colours of the coral, is something that stays with you forever.”
Cpl Alex Simpson, Acute Medicine, thanked the NAAFI Fund, stating “Without your funding, the expedition would not have happened. Every dive is unique for its own reasons while under the waves. Triggerfish are my favorite; their big teeth make them look like they are smiling, and they always make me laugh—who knows, maybe they are smiling? Diving with the Injured (DWI) offers me the opportunity to just be myself. It’s like one big family. DWI allows me to de-stress and forget about life’s challenges while immersed with the grins of the triggerfish and the humbling tales from the veterans.”
Maj Ian Bertram, 3 Rifles, stated “The equipment we kindly received from the NAAFI Fund kept us safe in the water, looked great and most importantly helped our injured divers get the most out of this once in a lifetime opportunity. Thank you so much.”
Just looking at the photos, videos, and heartfelt testimonials, it’s clear this wasn’t just a dive trip; it was an incredible experience.
Do you run an aqua sports programme or a diving initiative that needs a financial boost? We’re passionate about supporting projects that bring people together and promote well-being. Discover how we can support you – get in touch with us today @naafisocial!
