Healing Through Diving: Capturing the Military Recreational Divers Benefit in Fort Lauderdale

A proud group of supporters standing in front of the Military Recreational Divers backdrop, celebrating a night dedicated to helping veterans heal through diving. Image provided by Mr. Paw Portraits.

As a pet photographer at Mr. Paw Portraits, I’m often photographing four-legged friends, but this time, I had the honor of volunteering my photography skills for a very special cause—the Military Recreational Divers Benefit, held at the Renaissance Fort Lauderdale. The event, organized by military veteran Rafael Troncoso and his wife Monika Hadvigerova, was a heartwarming evening dedicated to supporting veterans by helping them heal through scuba diving.

A Night to Remember

The benefit brought together over 100 guests, including celebrities like singer Nia Devine, artist Picardo, and boxer Glen Johnson. It was an unforgettable evening, complete with live music, moving speeches, and a raffle featuring amazing prizes such as aesthetic gift cards, portrait sessions, wine, autographed football jerseys, and artwork.

Thanks to the generosity of the attendees and sponsors, $1,700 was raised to fund scuba diving charters for 15 veterans. This life-changing experience helps veterans reconnect with the world around them in a profound way, offering a sense of peace and healing through diving. For a glimpse into this incredible evening, you can view the event photos below.

Boxing champion Glen Johnson

Nia Devine Singing Beautifully

Picardo inspiring the audience

Image provided by Mr. Paw Portraits

Healing Through Scuba Diving

The Military Recreational Divers program goes beyond simple recreation—it provides veterans with a unique opportunity to find peace and regain a sense of purpose. Through scuba classes and guided charters, veterans learn the skills needed to dive and are given the chance to explore the underwater world. For many, this experience offers a much-needed escape and a new way to manage the emotional toll of their service.

Rafael Troncoso, Monika, and Carlos M. Lopez pose together after sharing their inspiring stories. Image provided by Mr. Paw Portraits.

One of the most moving moments of the evening was a speech from a veteran who shared his personal battle with mental health after returning from service. He spoke candidly about how, at his lowest point, he contemplated ending his life because he felt completely isolated and lost. It was discovering Military Recreational Divers that changed everything for him. Through the program, he found a sense of belonging, joy, and purpose again. His story is a powerful reminder of why organizations like this are so important for our veterans.

Veterans experiencing the joy of diving, finding peace and healing beneath the waves

Supporting a Worthy Cause

The incredible work done by Military Recreational Divers would not be possible without the continued support of the community. Every dollar raised during this event will go directly towards funding diving charters, scuba training, and other resources that help veterans heal and reconnect. These experiences make a lasting difference, providing veterans with not only an adventure but also a renewed sense of purpose.

If you’re interested in supporting this life-changing mission, whether through donations or by attending future events, please visit the Military Recreational Divers website at https://mrdfl.org. Together, we can make a profound difference for those who have given so much.

Group of veterans preparing for an unforgettable diving experience.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Attendees

This special evening would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors and the participation of everyone who attended. Your support helped ensure the success of the benefit, and we are incredibly grateful for your contributions:

• Ocean Bank – Our main sponsor, supporting veterans and community causes. Visit Website

• Peoples Title – Your trusted partner for real estate closings. Visit Website

• Little Things Dive Supply – Dive equipment and supplies for your underwater adventures. Visit Website

• W&S Eric Wiener – Offering financial solutions for individuals and families. Visit Website

• Allstate – Providing peace of mind through comprehensive insurance. Visit Website

• Golden Aesthetic – Specializing in top-quality aesthetic treatments in Fort Lauderdale. Visit Website

• Mr. Paw Portraits – Capturing the essence of your pets and special moments with timeless photography Visit Website

  
  

Thank you all for making a real difference in the lives of veterans. Your contributions mean the world, and together, we can continue to support those who have given so much.

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