01/30/2024
I had a frightening experience recently and I have been struggling over whether to share it with you or not. But I decided that the lessons I learned deserve a wider audience than just myself, and that stigmas live on through silence.
On a dive safari in Mexico, I noticed some strange symptoms after our first day of diving and quickly found out I had developed cutis marmorata, commonly known as the skin bends.
I had adhered faithfully to my dive computers instructions and followed all of the normal safety protocols, but I still got bent. I felt bewildered, scared, embarrassed and disappointed, amongst other things. Fortunately my case was mild and I have no lasting health repercussions.
Once I was clearly medically, I realized I had an opportunity to help educate myself and others about decompression sickness. The subject is shrouded in uncertainty scientifically, and often discussion amongst recreational divers is misguided. So I wrote about my experience on my blog. Follow the link in my bio to read the fully story.
By posting this I am hoping to help educate you and others about decompression sickness, and to help you avoid it. If you can learn anything from my experience and become a safer diver in any way then I’ve done my job.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments. Dive safely, and happy bubbling!