On Saturday, Sept. 22, veterans, active-duty military personnel, first responders and their families entered the water via kayak at Grassy Sound Marina in North Wildwood as part of the Heroes on the Water event.
Heroes on the Water is a 501(c)(3) veterans charity which aims to reduce the impact of post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury among heroes, and provide camaraderie and support. The organization does so primarily through kayak fishing. Volunteer-led chapters around the United States hold kayak fishing events at no charge for heroes, allowing them to relax, rehabilitate and reintegrate in a peaceful and calm environment. No experience or equipment is needed, and kayak fishing is adaptive to those with disabilities. These events make a positive impact on our heroes’ lives, allowing them to spend much-needed time with their families and creating lifelong relationships with like-minded people.
According to Heroes on the Water’s website, a 2009 Rand Study states that 300,000+ warriors have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), 320,000+ have Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and 31,902 have visible wounds.
Heroes on the Water was a participant in an 18-month study conducted by Troy University which focused on alternative forms of therapy for those suffering from traumatic experiences. Results showed:
- 60% less re-experience like flashbacks and bad dreams
- 56% less stress
- 63% less avoidance like avoiding certain places and situations that trigger reminders
- 62% less hypervigilance, which is an extreme state of alertness that causes sensitivity to surroundings and feelings of hidden dangers
The Heroes on the Water event at Grassy Sound Marina was just one of many events held by the South Jersey chapter to help our local veterans “Paddle. Fish. Heal,” as the motto goes.
For more information on Heroes on the Water, visit heroesonthewater.org.
