Underwater with the Navy Raiders, 50 disabled divers in Porto Venere (photo)

DIVING FOR THE DISABLED

Underwater, anything is possible. Even boosting self-esteem and improving the well-being of people with disabilities through diving. With this in mind, on July 27th and 28th, 300 divers immersed themselves in the marvelous waters of the Byron Cave in Porto Venere, in the province of La Spezia. Among them were 50 disabled divers who, thanks to their 150 guides and operators from the Italian Navy's Comsubin group , were able to admire the wonders hidden in the body of water overlooked by the ancient church of San Pietro, where the English poet and politician Byron loved to take refuge.

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DISABLED DIVERS IN THE NAVY

The course, titled " Diving Together in Porto Venere ," is now in its twelfth year and, over the past 12 years, has allowed nearly 500 disabled divers to experience diving alongside professionals such as Navy Divers and Commandos. This opportunity was made possible thanks to the collaboration between the Comsubin Operational Groups, the HSA Italia (Handicapped Scuba Association), and the Gruppo Sub Ospedale della Spezia. This relationship, which has grown over the years, has led to true friendships, strengthened around a shared passion: the sea , which, against the backdrop of the natural amphitheater formed by the rocky arch of Byron Cave, expresses itself in all its majestic beauty.

DIVING TOGETHER IN PORTO VENERE

The goal of initiatives like these, and of the sport of scuba diving in general, is to overcome diversity, building confidence in disabled people who, by learning to dive and practicing this activity, are able to reap not only psychological but also physical benefits . To support this thesis, this year, the promoters of " Immerse Yourself in Porto Venere " have decided to launch a scientific study on those who have dived. The research, which also involves doctors specializing in underwater and hyperbaric medicine at Varignano, home of Comsubin, is aimed at verifying the psychological and physical benefits of recreational diving. What is certain is that, judging by the smiles of those who participated, they certainly can't wait to get back in the water.

The images are taken from the Navy website.

WHEN SPORT HELPS TO OVERCOME DISABILITIES

• Andrea Stella, the wheelchair-bound skipper crossing the ocean (photo)

• Sailing boats where disabled people learn to sail while having fun (Video)

• Disabled people at the seaside: a special walkway that allows access to the water. And the best-equipped beaches (video and photos)

• Matteo, 20, confined to a wheelchair, has become a world champion in table tennis (photo)