On Saturday, 24 November 2012 Stay-Focused alumnus, Paralympian and PADI Divemaster Ryan Chalmers, pushed his racing chair across Grand Cayman, an 88 kilometre/55-mile route, in just over five hours. Push Across Cayman was an amazing event and represented the start of the Push Across America campaign, which will launch next spring. Chalmers championed this event to raise awareness for all persons with disabilities and to help the Stay-Focused organization continue its leadership programs on the island where he earned his PADI Divemaster certification at PADI Five Star Instructor Development Dive Resort Sunset House.
Stay-Focused offers a unique, transformational learning experience to teens and young adults with disabilities. Through a PADI scuba diving certification program, participants gain confidence, develop leadership skills, become more independent, and join the Stay-Focused community. Participants learn to challenge themselves, set higher goals, and form long-term relationships. Stay-Focused is committed to supporting medical research that explores the beneficial aspects of diving on persons with mobility challenges.
Stay tuned on Chalmer’s upcoming adventures in 2013 when he plans to push his racing chair from Los Angeles, California, USA to New York City, New York, USA. This has never been done before. Chalmers plans to leave Los Angeles on 6 April 2013, and arrive in New York City 71 days later on 15 June. See how he trains and prepares for this goal by liking the Stay Focused Facebook Page