Brave Divers Rescue a Grey Nurse Shark

Mr. John Dickinson (left) and Mr. Chip Garber with their Award plaque

On February 27, 2010, Scuba Works dive-shop owner John Dickinson was on a dive with his friend Chip Garber, a former emergency veterinarian, to a wreck called “The Princess Anne” off Palm Beach, Florida, USA, when they saw an emaciated shark lying on the sea floor with a Frisbee-like plastic ring around its neck. The Grey Nurse shark appeared to be discolored and to have lost weight because the plastic ring which covered its gills prevented it from eating. Knowing exactly what to do as an experienced veterinarian, Chip decided to help the shark. He approached the injured Grey Nurse from behind, while John stayed close to record the event for all to see and learn from. Chip grabbed hold of the plastic ring and gripped the shark in a bear hug. He then maneuvered the plastic ring to get it off the shark’s neck. A few minutes later, the Grey Nurse happily swam away.

This incidence is just one of the many tales of marine animals being harmed by man-made debris released into the ocean. The folks in the area have also witnessed such tragedies as a sea turtle being caught in a plastic six-pack can holder, and sea birds being choked by plastic bags. Because of the alarming situation of ocean water being polluted, many divers in the area have been very vigilant in keeping the water free of man-made debris to protect the marine life.

In recognition of their compassionate bravery in assisting an injured Grey Nurse shark, Chip Garber and John Dickinson were honored with the Shining World Hero Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai. The award ceremony was held at John’s Scuba Works dive-shop on June 7, Golden Year 7 (2010). In addition to the crystal plaque, representatives of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association also presented them with custom-tailored, warm Hero Jackets and a selection of Supreme Master Ching Hai’s publications. Master also gave them these loving words of encouragement, “In this rescue you both showed heroic courage, truly admirable compassion, and wisdom in recording the plight that marine life faces as a result of human waste.”

Chip and John thanked Master for extending to them the honor and privilege of being recipients of this prestigious award and expressed their concern about the man-made debris damaging the life and beauty of our marine world. Let Chip and John’s story be a reminder for us all to preserve the environment and treat other species with consideration and loving care. May all marine life flourish in natural harmony and balance.

Reference:
To read more media coverage on their heroic deed, please visit:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/05/scuba-divers-wrestle-shar_n_487141.html