Matthew Johnston - Diving a dream

Posted 17 January 2006

My name is Matthew Johnston. I'm 28 and am from Minnesota, USA. I have Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This condition keeps me in a wheelchair and to breathe l require the use of a ventilator. I am only able to move my thumbs and hands, and have only slight movement in my legs and arms.

I have done a lot of things in my life. I have travelled the world and fought many health battles. Since I was six, I have dreamed of going SCUBA diving. My network of supporters, which includes doctors, engineers, friends and family all believe that my dream is possible with the right equipment, but this will need to be specially developed for me. Nothing is impossible! If man can go to the moon, I know my dream will become a reality. 

It is my mission in life to realise my dream despite the tremendous odds against me. The task won’t come easily as l must also overcome some equipment issues. I have a tracheostomy, so my body must be dry, plus questions remain about how l will receive my air supply and if a ventilator can handle delivering gas under the increased pressure from being underwater.

With the help of experts in diving medicine, diving technology, friends, and family, l have successfully submerged for more than 30 consecutive minutes in a swimming pool. The experts said that with the existing technology, they do not necessarily have to create a new ventilator, therefore the expense will be minimal.

I would be ecstatic to just drop down three feet, peering in those sea creatures' docile eyes and experiencing the freedom of the underwater world.

I want to pioneer the way to increase access for others to overcome their limitations in pursuit of their dreams. The death of my best friend made me realise that life is too short, and we need to enjoy it while we can.

For more information about Matthew's project, please visit www.divingadream.org