On the Dive Odyssey shoot
Q: We couldn’t talk to you without mentioning one of the biggest challenges you have faced. You were involved in a nasty traffic accident in March 2018 that left you severely injured. How is the recovery progressing, and what was it like getting back into diving? A: Yes, it has definitely not been the easiest 18 months of my life! That being said, I don’t regret anything. The way the dive community came together to support me was just astonishing. The physical recovery is going very well (which sadly means I now don’t have an excuse not to go to the gym!), the mental side is, of course, slower. The PTSD is on the mend, but it takes time. One of the most-amazing feelings which brought me instant relief was actually getting back in the water. It felt like I was ‘home’. Locating the wedding ring on the Tulsamerican project
Gemma with Amphitrite the mermaid
Not your typical techie
Silversides off Grand Cayman
Q: So, finally, what does the future hold for Gemma Smith (other than being a speaker on the Inspiration Stage at the GO Diving Show in February 2020)? A: Oh yes, I’m definitely looking forward to being a speaker at GO Diving! As for other plans… there are things in the pipeline for sure! My outlook on diving has changed though since the accident. While I have always been incredibly driven to succeed, I think my definition of success has changed. I’m in the process of putting together underwater projects that show people how mentally and physically healing diving can be. If it helps even one person, it will be worth it. n
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