The conference today started as all conferences do. You walk into the lecture hall, try to find a seat that has a good view but not too close to the lectern less you get spotted snoozing or sneaking out to the bathroom. You hope that your neighbor for the next four hours isn’t a table-kicker, chronic throat clearer, or just plain mean. Luckily, I managed to accomplish all of these goals.

The talks started with topics such as the “Epidemiology of Decompression Illness” and “Mechanisms and Diagnosis of Decompression Illness”. I managed to stay awake for all the talks even without the help of coffee. So, I think that all these years of falling asleep in lectures has nothing to do with narcolepsy. Rather, now I think I’ve just been bored all these years.

After the talks, we put theory into practice by venturing out to the ocean. These were Renu’s first dives as a certified diver. She was controlled and capable, dealing with mask leaks and buoyancy with confidence. I was impressed with how quickly she became comfortable in this new environment and I hope that she enjoyed our first stroll together through one of my favorite neighborhoods.