Should he not freedive?

[freedivinmike]

As you can guess, there are not many freedivers in Ohio. I was pleasantly surprised to get a message from a person here in our state that is very interested in giving it a go!

Here is the problem. He informed me that he has slight cerebral palsy and epilepsy. He wanted to know if he would be able to freedive as it is something that he really wants to do. I know he needs to check with his doctor but does anyone have any information I can pass on to him. Do you think there is any chance he should try the sport? Thanks for your help!

 

[Jon]

I've run scuba courses for people with CP in the past and they did just fine. The epilepsy part scares me and he needs to talk to his doctor before even thinking about trying to start.
You could also have him call up the doctors at the Divers Alert Network (DAN) and get their opinion.

Jon

 

[Shark2307]

Hard to say, depends on a lot of factors(number of recent seiuzurs/seizures at all).

Generally spoken Hypoxia triggers seizures...

Hard question as you need an expert on diving medicine as well as one experienced neurologist...

 

[MartinTee]

The only way to find out is to try. If you have a buddy for freediving with him, i.e You then he is safe there and a buddy who will be in the water incase of a seizure, family or friend then I don't see why not.

Get him in the water! It may even help things, who knows

 

[Shark2307]

The only way to find out is to try.

It is not that easy. If he really gets a seizures even just in a pool he could get into serious trouble.

What if he aspirates water as soon as seizures begin?

I could't take that risk on my shoulders.

I would not be sure that i could get him out of the water that easily if something happens.

 

[freedivinmike]

Here is an update. I feel bad for the guy as he checked with DAN and they strongly suggest he not freedive. He does have a history of seizures. Perhaps if he ever becomes seizure free he can revisit being able to freedive.

 

[MartinTee]

Here is an update. I feel bad for the guy as he checked with DAN and they strongly suggest he not freedive. He does have a history of seizures. Perhaps if he ever becomes seizure free he can revisit being able to freedive.

Damn, first of all, who is DAN?

I'd still give this guy a crack at it, I totally understand what Shark2307 is saying too. But this guy probably bathes/showers and does a whole load of stuff which would be worse given he has a seizure.

Can't you at least give him information on what it's about and then see if he can freedive with his family/carer/friends who are all aware of the signs? Has he ever swam? If he swims, then freediving is actually going to be safer for him because he will have someone at his side at ALL times.

I know you're right in saying what if he has a seizure and takes in water, that could be terribly serious for him and he could quite easily die but what if freediving stops his seizures all together?

 

[apneaboy]

Thanks Dr Tee.

I think consult a doctor on the risks so you don't misadvise is a prudent step.

'Well your honour, it seemed like a good idea at the time' doesn't cut it.

'Are you little Jonnies mum?' Won't be a good conversation either

 

[MartinTee]

Wise words Apneaboy!

It's just a shame that he'd most definately love the sport