Rays of Hope: Veterans Find Solace Swimming with Gentle Rays at Ripley's Aquarium
Military service can leave lasting impacts, but a unique program at Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is offering Veterans a chance to de-stress and reconnect with nature in a way they might not have expected: by swimming with gentle stingrays.
Led by Lou Krieger, an U.S. Army Veteran with two tours in Vietnam, the program has been running for six years and is recommended by the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System as part of a whole health approach to health care.
Krieger started the program after reading a news article about a similar initiative. He contacted Ripley's Aquarium, and a month later, the first swim was held. Since then, the program has grown, and Krieger is proud to partner with Ripley’s to offer the experience at no cost to Veterans, sometimes including their spouses and children, especially those struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
"It just puts them in a different place," Krieger said. "A place they've never been before. They say it's very calming and relaxing, and something that they carry with them for a few weeks after they do the swims." This tranquility directly supports Veterans' mental health, a key component of whole health.
The stingrays' barbs have been removed, ensuring a safe and positive experience for all participants. Aquarium staff provide educational information about the different ray species and answer any questions Veterans may have. Veterans are even welcome to return for multiple swims.
"The faces, the expressions," said Cethlynn Weatherly, a Ripley's Aquarium aquarist who has been involved with the program for over three years, "everyone really loves getting in with the rays. It's such a treat to see everyone's faces just light up."
Art Dickerman, a Veteran who participated in the program with his wife Renee, echoed these sentiments. "They're such gentle animals," he said. "When you're petting them, it's very calming. It's just you, floating around, and watching them."
The program is a great example of community organizations working together to support Veterans' well-being. Krieger encourages interested Veterans to contact him directly at louk1065@gmail.com. The program is currently offered once a month but can be expanded to twice a month if interest picks up.
“I love to see Veterans happy, and this program has been my way of paying it forward,” said Cethlynn. “My dad served in the military for 23 years, so the idea that someone could be doing something like this for my dad somewhere else really makes me happy.”
The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System website also offers a helpful resource for Veterans seeking additional whole health opportunities outside the VA https://www.va.gov/charleston-health-care/programs/whole-health/. This page lists volunteer opportunities, social events, and other activities that can help Veterans connect with their community and improve their overall well-being. Remember, the VA doesn't endorse or sponsor the swimming with the rays event or any specific organizations, but this resource provides a great starting point for Veterans to explore their options.
For Veterans interested in learning more about the VA's Whole Health approach and exploring a wider range of whole health opportunities, the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System offers a wealth of information on their website https://www.va.gov/wholehealth/. This program is just one-way Veterans can take charge of their well-being and live a healthier, happier life.