After a few delays due to unfavorable weather conditions, fifteen-year-old and visually impaired Rowan Garel became the first blind person to dive the world famous Great Blue Hole of Belize this past weekend, Friday, July 26, 2013.
Rowan, who had become a household name in Belize for now climbing the tallest mountain in Belize and walking across the country, this weekend completed his most ambitions and challenging feat yet.
With training and assistance from Sea Sports Belize and PADI certified instructor, John Searle, Rowan and his team, Rowan Garel was able to dive one of the world’s most popular sites all in the name of fundraising for the Belize Council of the Visually Impaired (BCVI). All of his challenges have been to support the organization that provides year-round support to children who are blind in Belize.
A large send of party consisting of supports, family and friends were present as Rowan and his dive crew left Belize City for the Blue Hole. Rowan reportedly had a successful dive and proved to the world that any handicap can be surpassed with a positive mindset and determination. After his dive, Rowan was presented with his dive certification which he accepted with a big, proud smile.
“What I’m interested in is raising funds and awareness for the only program in Belize that deals with blind or visually impaired people and they have a rehab program which is completely free of cost,” commented Rowan prior to his dive. “Take that away and all the blind people, like myself, will just be behind with everything, there would be no one there to help them along and that is what motivates me.” Follow Rowan’s Journey through his Blog!
Rowan and BCVI continue to fundraise for the cause and reach the $100,000 mark. You can still assist Rowan to make is his goal by making a contribution via www.bcvi.org or through direct deposit at Belize Bank 71096, at any BCVI clinic countrywide, and for those in the US, you can donate to the BCVI Foundation c/o Thomas Angell – Jacobs, Burns, Orlove & Hernandez – 150 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1000 – Chicago, IL 60601.
