It can be—but it depends on severity and impact.

The Dive Pirates Foundation supports people with permanent mobility impairments, not necessarily those who use a wheelchair full-time. However, there should be a clear, functional limitation in mobility due to a diagnosed medical condition.

Key Considerations for Eligibility with Rheumatoid Arthritis

To align with the spirit and requirements of the Dive Pirates mission, a person with RA would typically need to show:

Documented mobility impairment, such as:

• Regular use of a mobility aid (e.g., cane, walker, braces, orthotics, etc.)
• Visible limitations in walking, climbing stairs, or balance
• Assistance needed for certain physical tasks (e.g., dressing, getting up from a seated position)

Functional limitations during diving activities, like:

• Difficulty carrying or donning gear
• Needing assistance entering/exiting the water
• Altered kicking technique or reduced limb strength requiring accommodation

Consistency of symptoms

Someone with intermittent, mild RA that doesn’t require mobility assistance or show visible physical limitations may not meet the program’s intent—even though they have a medical diagnosis.

Do you still wish to proceed with this application?