Kym Larsen
Kym is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and Handicapped Scuba Association Instructor. Certified with Ocean Enterprises in 2006 Kym quickly developed a passion for scuba diving, working diligently to complete her professional level training. Realizing the inner peace scuba diving provided she wanted to help very deserving individuals discover and harness these benefits. In 2007 Kym completed her certification with the Handicapped Scuba Association providing her the knowledge and skills necessary to work with disabled students.
Having grown up in a military town and based on her own personal experiences with Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) it was easy to see how she gravitated towards this population. Kym immediately took these skills and jumped head first into research on how to use this certification to help Injured Veterans.
Scuba diving offers a unique and therapeutic environment for those suffering with physical injuries and PTSD. The weightlessness of the ocean allows them to participate in a sport without the uncomfortable pain felt in most land based sports. Additionally, scuba diving is a buddy sport so it provides a social opportunity to get out and meet people with a shared interest.
Veterans report they find peace under the ocean; the tranquil environment allows them to relax and focus on healing. Kym combines their training with additional post certification dive opportunities to help reintegrate into society rather than isolate. Kym currently serves as Ocean Enterprise Foundation’s Veteran Liaison as she works closely with various Veteran organizations and is very active in an ongoing study about the benefits of Scuba diving on Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD.
Kym has been a vital part in making a positive impact on the lives of the many warriors that the Foundation has worked with, and continues to work with. Her passion to help these individuals is extremely evident and shows in each and every person that goes through this program!
