Maintenance window scheduled to begin at February 14th 2200 est. until 0400 est. February 15th

(e.g. yourname@email.com)

Forgot Password?

    Defense Visual Information Distribution Service Logo

    Atlanta VAMC patients find swimming with sharks therapeutic

    Atlanta VAMC patients find swimming with sharks therapeutic

    Courtesy Photo | Disabled veterans swim with marine animals at the Georgia Aquarium Aug. 12, 2015, as a...... read more read more

    ATLANTA, GEORGIA, UNITED STATES

    08.18.2015

    Story by Eric Brown 

    Atlanta VA Health Care System

    ATLANTA - Swimming with the largest shark in the world may sound a bit unnerving to some, but for a handful of disabled veterans receiving health care at Atlanta VA Medical Center’s (VAMC) Recreational Therapy program, it’s exactly the kind of therapy they need.

    The Atlanta VAMC’s Recreation Therapy partnered with the Georgia Aquarium Aug. 12, 2015 to provide six disabled Veterans a unique opportunity to submerge in the aquarium’s 6.3 million gallon exhibit, Ocean Voyager, and experience the tranquility of the graceful animals swimming below.

    Georgia Aquarium Dive Coordinator Chris Duncan explained that disabled Veterans participating in the Journey with Gentle Giants Dive Immersion program experience peace, happiness, and tranquility. “They’re going to be happier, more relaxed, and hopefully not be thinking about their injury,” Duncan said.

    For America’s veterans, therapeutic recreation promotes health and wellness along with reducing or eliminating activity limitations and restrictions caused by an illness or disabling condition.

    In addition, Atlanta VAMC Recreation Therapist Chauncy Rozier wants the veterans in her care to develop and use their leisure in ways that enhance their health, functional abilities, independence and quality of life. “There’s a whole plethora of things they can get involved in,” Rozier said.

    Veteran Mark Sikes, who was a bit apprehensive before entering the water, was surprised to discover a different world under the surface. “My biggest fear was the sharks,” Sikes said. “I’m going to defeat something I’m afraid of.”

    Therapeutic recreation is based upon a holistic framework that focuses on all aspects of improving an individual’s health and functioning. Rozier was satisfied that not only did the Veterans face legitimate fears, but that the event helped to build confidence, improve self-reliance, and have fun while improving their physical ability. “They were totally living and totally free,” Rozier said.

    “To see the bodies elongated and stretched beyond what I have never seen on some of them was great,” Rozier said. “But overwhelmingly, to see the smiles afterwards on their faces, I can never forget.”

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 08.18.2015
    Date Posted: 08.18.2015 14:43
    Story ID: 173499
    Location: ATLANTA, GEORGIA, US

    Web Views: 443
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN