Therapeutic Qualities

"Exciting outings such as this can be therapeutic as they are definitely motivating and critical to expedient recovery while in a rehab setting. So, our staff, as well, appreciates this effort more than you know".  ~ Kathryn J. Bryant, CTRS CBIS Recreation Therapy Dept. J. A, Haley VA Hospital, Tampa

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"Your organization adds tremendous value in assisting in the recuperation, recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration to civilian life for these brave men and women who have given so much."

~ Michael W. Hartford, Captain USN
NMCM, Navy Safe Harbor Polytrauma Rehab Center
J.A. Haley VA Hospital

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“Thank you for getting in the trenches with our Combat Veterans.  For many of the participants this was the first time they received healing from fishing and spending the day on the Delta.  These Veterans have experienced enjoyment that impacts their lives.

For one Veteran this was a trip he will never forget; catching his first fish on his first ever fishing excursion.  We look forward to future excursions and appreciate your support.”

~Steve Lawson
Team Leader
Modesto Vet Center

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Vestibular System and it's relationship to Boating/Sailing/Fishing:

Nearly 30-65% OEF/OIF service members are found to have some type of dizziness and balance difficulties post deployment - often these issues are not found/discovered until a few years later.

Balance is controlled primarily by 3 inputs - SENSATION (from feet and joints), VESTIBULAR SYSTEM (balance control organ in your inner ear), and VISION.  When you are standing on an UNEVEN SURFACE (like a boat!) you should rely primarily on your VESTIBULAR SYSTEM.

Inside the VESTIBULAR SYSTEM, there are parts that control various movements - angular or rotational movement as well as linear acceleration.

When thinking about boating, sailing or fishing - you are having to constantly adjust your balance to account for waves, rocking, forward acceleration, turns all things the vestibular system controls."

~ Dr. Karen Skop, James A Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, Florida

Listed are just a few of the areas in which the therapist have assessed progression:

• Increased verbal interaction
• Trust
• Self confidence
• Peer relationship development
• Increased skills at managing stress, anxiety and boredom
• Lowered levels of depression
• Improved morale and life satisfaction
• Decreased social isolation
• Corrects issues with the vestibular system (controls balance)

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