Blind divers in the Red Sea

From 21st until 27^th of September at Makadi Bay, Red Sea, the first international festival for poor sighted and blind divers is taking place, organised by the Sight Disability Association (ADV). Of the 16 blind participants, some have a vast experience as divers whereas others can enter into contact, for the first time, with the wonders that the coral reefs can offer giving unforgettable touch sensations to the poor sighted and blind diver. Apart from the said group of poor sighted divers there will also be an additional 10 divers made up of specially qualified dive buddies and dive guides, other guides will be arranged on location and headed by Barbara Alessi, becoming experts in the system of guiding blind or poor sighted divers (invented by ADV) and known as “rudder” or “timone”. The guides will be provided by “DIVING OCEAN”, who will take care of all the logistics and organisation.

The mascot for the expedition is called Pluto, the loyal companion of one of the participants; even though in Egypt the rules are not the same as in Italy where a blind person can enter in any public place with their guide dog, some objections have been overcome and Pluto will be able to carry out his role on the African Continent. So tomorrow he will board the plane with the other passengers and follow his trusted owner throughout the whole trip and be welcomed in honour at Hurgarda Airport, where a special arrival procedure has been prepared, allowing him to carry out his role as guide dog for his owner during this diving holiday.

“For 40 years, the ADV, has been dedicated in helping to enrich the field of mobility for poor sighted persons in all aspects of life, schooling, working, access to culture and information to non traditional sports, for example, recreational diving, downhill and cross country skiing. This festival, which is financed and deeply wanted by all involved, serves as an example to all in demonstrating how we can effectively react to improve the quality of life and experience for those with visual disabilities in Italy and the rest of the world.”

Avv. Giulio Nardone – President ADV

For more information ; Giulio Nardone, Hotel Prima Life, Makadi Bay.

Tel. 0020 65 35 90 250 / 1,2,3,4,5.