All,
In the immediate aftermath of the accident, everybody did and said things that they shouldn't have. It is truly unfortunate that a rift has developed on the island and mud slinging has occured. We cannot let this continue, it helps no one.
Ellis and his family (especially his sister Ellen) are in a grave financial situation. Bottom line is they have huge bills and he still needs a lot more $expensive$ surgery.
Paradise Down, in my opinion, is a very reputable operation. My wife and I did our PADI OW with them earlier in the year. I did 4 dives with them in May. I even set up a private charter (snorkel and dive) for my wedding party it was FANTASTIC. I found them to be safe, courteous, patient with rookies and knowledgable about the local sites.
I also know that beyond the salary OJ has been paying, he has also paid some bills directly and donated trips to the weekly raffles. Based on what I know of his character, I expect OJ will continue to do what he can to help Ellis pay his bills. He feels terrible about what has happened.
Everyone on the island should look forward and stop spreading BS from the past. Ellis's situation is BAD, no doubt. Paradise Down and many other local businesses are doing what they can to help.
In my opinion, the CC village council or even the gov't of Belize should mandate FULL INSURANCE COVERAGE either through DAN scuba insurance or other means for everybody on a scuba boat. This will not stop accidents from happening, but it will ensure that when accidents do happen the victims can get the best available medical attention and not be left with a $50,000 bill...
Please see
www.SaveEllis.org for more information on his situation and please donate what you can afford to his medical fund. If you find yourself in Caye Caulker, stop by Seaside Cabanas and buy a raffle ticket, you can win great prizes donated by local businesses.
Alex Sullivan