In July 2017, young Apollo, 11 years old, fulfilled one of his greatest dreams: scuba diving. A significant moment for the young boy suffering from myopathy, as well as for his family who came to witness this event with him.Accompanied by his parents and three siblings, Apollo traveled to the Var this summer, specifically to the Aqualonde Diving Club in La Londe-les-Maures. After briefly steering the boat, the young boy was able to enjoy the long-awaited introduction to diving, starting with the gear: « It was the first time I wore a wetsuit, it was very funny to put on. And I ended up with big flippers, it was hilarious! » Apollo recalls. For him, there was no apprehension about being underwater except adjusting to the regulator in the first few minutes: « At first, it was very strange to breathe through the mouth, I felt like I was going to swallow water, but eventually, I saw that I wasn’t and I was able to enjoy my dive. »
Underwater, Apollo completely forgot his disability and difficulties walking. Accompanied by his instructor, Marc, he enjoyed every second and fulfilled one of his greatest dreams by diving among the marine animals he loves so much: « I saw a gilthead sea bream, I got within 10 centimeters of an octopus and even found myself in front of a school of barracudas, it was impressive, truly a beautiful adventure. Anne, Apollo’s mother, cherishes the fond memory of this first underwater family experience: « We had the chance to share this moment at the same time, to discover the same things and to be perfectly guided to enjoy the animals around us. » Everyone wishes to repeat the experience as soon as possible, « Apollo would dream of being able to dive again, but among dolphins this time, »confides the boy’s mother.
Keeping only the good moments
Diagnosed with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy* in 2014, Apollo learns that progressively he will no longer be able to walk. His parents then decide to make his life a full and rich experience and to savor every moment to remember the good times. In addition to his scuba diving initiation, the young boy, who expresses himself very maturely for his age, has been able to fulfill many dreams: « I have gone paragliding, I wanted to do skydiving but I am too young. I also participated in a circuit tour with Nelson Panciatici, a Le Mans 24 Hours driver whom I adore. As I am a big sports fan, I was able to attend the Roland Garros final and a match of my favorite football team: PSG. » Apollo is one of the four young ambassadors for the 2017 Telethon, which takes place on December 8 and 9. « A very important mission, » for the little diver who describes himself as a true mental warrior. He has already participated in many events as an ambassador, including the Lyon running event or the Figaro cross.
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* Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy is a disease that affects the muscles of the shoulders and pelvic area by reducing their strength.
Margot Harty