When my family planned a vacation to the Florida Keys, I began having visions of grandeur of me swimming gracefully with dolphins. Ok well maybe gracefully was a BIT of an exaggeration, but to say it was a wonderful experience that I will never forget is not
I began researching the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key, Florida. Upon discovering a program they had specifically dedicated to helping people with disabilities participate, I reached out to them via email at specialneeds@dolphins.org. They were very accommodating and explained that they work with people of various ages and abilities. Depending on your comfort lever or ability, you can choose to stay on the platform or get fully in the water with the dolphins.
I was a little nervous but knew I was going for it. Go big or go home! Right?! They paired me with a trainer who got in the water with me and helped me every step of the way. I even let the dolphin pull me across the cove, channeling my inner mermaid. Ahem sort of… That was the part that was well quite hysterical for everyone watching. Everyone else had this cute, photogenic pictures then there’s me…(see photographic evidence). Classic Katie. 🤷🏼♀️
These dolphins were so playful. It was nice to spend an afternoon in the water where my disability wasn’t an issue. I am so grateful for my experience at the Dolphin Research Center. They can help people with different abilities so be sure to check them out on your next visit to the Florida Keys. Glad to cross that off my bucket list!
