Jared Thompson came to Southern Dive Center in January 2017 to learn how to scuba dive and to receive his  open water certification.  Upon completion of his certification he found a love for the underwater world. However on March 16th 2018  a life changing event happened. Jared was in a major car accident that resulted in him being paralyzed from the chest down. After a long battle with recovery Jared is finally home and adjusting to his new life.  Many of the activities that Jared enjoyed are no longer possible given the extent of his injuries. However,  one activity that is not only possible, but even will help in his recovery, is SCUBA Diving! Being that Jared is paralyzed from the chest down there will be additional challenges to overcome to make this possible.  The SDI Scubility course will make Jared's dreams of getting back in the water a reality by teaching him ways to adapt underwater with his disability. As with any other SCUBA certification, a check-out dive will need to occur to ensure that Jared can safely function in the open ocean. The Florida Keys provide crystal clear water at depths optimal for the check-out and there is a company that has a boat with handicap capabilities that has agreed to rent it's  full boat charters for two days. This will not be cheap, but the options are slim and this will be the most efficient use of resources that will also ensure Jared's safety. By making your donation, Jared will be able to continue exploring the ocean and feeling a sense of normalcy in an activity he enjoyed before his accident.