The Neptune Warrior

On her phone, long before we were an item, I was listed as BDBE, Best Dive Buddy Ever. Before the engagement. Well before any romantic feelings, there was a deep friendship. There was a connection. There was an opportunity to not have to go this alone. My days as a strictly solo diver both in metaphor and reality were numbered.

Scuba diving became much more than a pastime for me; it was a transformative healing journey from my trauma. The tranquility and focus required underwater provided a therapeutic escape, allowing me to process and heal. Brooks, as my dive buddy, played a pivotal role in this healing process. A dive buddy is not just a safety measure; they’re a partner in the shared experience of diving, offering support both under and above the water.

In the underwater world, communication is non-verbal, yet the connection with a dive buddy is profound. Brooks was more than just a partner checking equipment or signaling underwater; she was a constant source of encouragement, helping me to navigate both the literal and metaphorical depths.

This journey through scuba diving taught me the power of partnership and trust. Diving with a buddy means relying on someone else for safety and support, mirroring the trust needed to overcome personal challenges. As we explored the underwater world, we also navigated through the complexities of healing, making the experience invaluable. This lead to where we are today.

Reflecting on another year passed, I realize how facing challenges with a supportive partner like Brooks made all the difference. Now, as we continue with physical fitness and counseling, we do so knowing the strength that comes from supportive relationships.

Here’s to the spouses, mental health professionals, family, friends, and colleagues who have been our support network. Together, our bonds are unbreakable.

• #ScubaHealing
• #DiveBuddySupport
• #TraumaRecovery
• #MentalHealthJourney
• #UnderwaterTherapy
• #StrongerTogether
• #DivingForWellness
• #OceanTherapy
• #DiveIntoHealing
• #MentalWellnessDiving
• #AquaticMindfulness
• #TherapeuticDiving
• #ScubaSerenity
• #HealingWaters
• #DeepSeaHealing
• #MindfulDiving
• #WaterborneWellness
• #SubmergeStress
• #DiveWithPurpose
• #EmotionalDepthExploration