I am also an Army veteran with PTSD and anxiety. Because of this, I’m rated at 100% disabled P&T and can’t work. I discovered the fishkeeping hobby a little over three years ago and it has been such a blessing for me. I had no idea I would love this hobby so much. Started with a 40 gallon and now I have three tanks (55, 40 and 29 gallons). You are never fully cured from PTSD, it’s always there for me lurking in the background, but this hobby has been a lifesaver for me! It is so very relaxing and calms me down. Because of fishkeeping, I have actually been able to cut back on my sessions with my therapist. My fish have been such a Godsend. I love this hobby and my little finny friends!
@NHseacoast2 ай бұрын
👍
@wendyhood10062 ай бұрын
🤗
@beastfr0meast932 ай бұрын
Just my thought. A cure is something that makes it go away for good. Yes - aquariums can make you think about something else. It distracts your thoughts. Glad to hear, that it has a positive effect on your mental health.
@GrLaker-je8qq2 ай бұрын
@@beastfr0meast93 Good point. Thank you.
@byz5132 ай бұрын
👍
@awilderireland2 ай бұрын
This man has achieved more in life with one arm and PTSD than most able bodied Dudes. Me included. Wishing him many more fulfilling years.
@bevfrigon71426 күн бұрын
Mr. Bill Mazon! First off I am a 74 yr old Canadian woman, and I find you very inspiring! Secondly Thank you for your service! I also am disbled (not though any heroism lol.)Mine came from a flu shot in 1998, (was mot a smart choice..GBS. It paralyzed me from the neck to my toes. I could not even blink , was on a respirator for over nine .months and in hospital and rehab for two years.I died 3 times and they never thought I would get off the vent. Left the hospital in a power wheelchair. Needed home care for nearly everything for over a year..Now i am able to use a walker in my own small apt and have a bratty cat and fish! ( sorry so long winded). Everything I do is like at a snail pace... no pun intended. I, like you, deal with intense pain daily and also have PTST. My fish tank is nothing elaborate like yours but I do find working in it, watching them, cleaning and doing water changes very therapeutic. Thank you so much for sharing your most interesting story and showing us your beautiful imaculate tanks! ❤ From Canada
@cyclin_sean.37132 ай бұрын
I'm English and a long long time fishkeeper,God bless him and America and the hobby.
@jamesmoody78222 ай бұрын
Thank you for your service Mr. Mason. Awesome interview, KG Tropicals. Love your content. This took it to another level. 💪🇺🇲
@HapiPETSWM2 ай бұрын
You are doing the work of angels, I’m not one to talk like that much so know it is above my usual compliments. The fact you are connecting not just meeting with people who look up to you and now share a place with you. He may have got a purple heart and was wounded but fish put him in a place he was able to find his heart, not the one given the one he needed to have. His tanks are fantastic and his story is literally life affirming. May his fish give him many years of joy and love and we all are grateful for his service, love you guys and may he and you both stay happy and healthy my friends!!! 😊❤
@AQUARIUMFREAK1232 ай бұрын
Much respect to this Veteran... Your tanks look amazing.
@joshlafond27862 ай бұрын
I’ve followed you for about 5 years. I’ve also bought from you & met you at Aquashella. Bravo! This is amazing work.
@msvaleriah2 ай бұрын
Mr. Mason, mere thanks are not enough for your continued service to your country and it's people. That you managed to do the things you've done in spite of PTSD and depression is inspiring to me, and I'm sure, countless others. Your determination and courage are admirable. Your tanks exhibit the same love and care you've given to your people over the years. They're gorgeous!
@steverees19362 ай бұрын
This is an amazing story. Hobbies are key to helping people's wellbeing and aquariums are ideal for such a purpose. I got into photography to deal with my anxiety and depression and that was thanks to my wife for buying my first camera. This man is a hero and the connection between him and his fish are strong. Thanks for sharing this and God bless 🙂
@Snowdog582 ай бұрын
I'm a Cornishman living in Wales, got to say this is one of the best videos you've ever done. Well done guys, inspiring 😊👍
@Laura-ed5kf2 ай бұрын
Huge thanks to Bill for his past & cnt’d service. My son also loved his story; REALLY appreciate the editing of Vietnam-footage. My boy needed to see that too. Thanks to Jon & Lisa for the drive: can’t wait to hear & see more.
@doloresmanning9619Ай бұрын
I love the direction you and Lisa are taking to interview veterans in the aquarium hobby. My dad was in the Navy for 11 years during the cold war (Bay of Pigs, 1963. etc.). Mr. Mason is just truly inspiring.
@jayriver16442 ай бұрын
You sure do keep those tanks immaculate, the decour is so natural and those gorgeous fish look so vibrant. I could sit there all day in awe.
@peggyroyster16052 ай бұрын
I watched your clip on TV and then I had to come on my iPhone that you comment. This episode was so beautiful. It made me cry. God bless you for doing this and God bless Mr. Mason for serving and helping us stay safe.❤
@rettag20202 ай бұрын
God bless you, and thank you for your service, Mr. Mason ❤ Love what you're doing, John and Lisa!
@seaquatics46662 ай бұрын
I am not military but suffer from PTSD from abuse and loss, what a beautiful brave man. I actually cried, I have 2 cats and like 10 tanks and they saved my life. I'm proud of you all.
@sharonjack8582Ай бұрын
Thank you, Mr. Mason, for your incredible service. I am humbled. It is wonderful you have discovered fishkeeping. It has helped my PTSD also. Every day there is something new to learn about aquatic life. USA
@williecanuck50012 ай бұрын
Canadian Vet here. 1970s and 80s.. Signals out of CFB Kingstons 1st Canadian Signals Regiment. Love my 2 tanks!! I loved your story and journey..
@Tackleberry6572 ай бұрын
I am a Navy veteran with PTSD and anxiety. Medically retired law enforcement officer. This hobby has helped me so much overcome these issues.
@msbranen62612 ай бұрын
First - Thank you Mr. Mason for your sacrifice. You ha e been through so much and have given back so much! I thoroughly enjoyed this very well made video!
@BlueUPBear2 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for this!!!! What an amazing inspiration. My husband and I were in aww of the tanks and the story. Thank you Bill for your service and sacrifice. Welcome home.
@jporterz2873Ай бұрын
Thank you Mr. Bill Mason for your service, and for letting us all into a little bit of your story. And thank you John and Lisa for all you are doing! You're going to have a hard time topping this first episode!
@qweenkaii04Ай бұрын
tht man has served and deserves the utmost honor and respect a Nam vet too?! goodness man ty for your service and ty for a look at your beautiful fish room...inspiring! i respect the vets so so much💯
@michaellawson27512 ай бұрын
God bless American and thank you for your service all American heros.
@LJE562 ай бұрын
This was a heartwarming video Makes me very grateful for what I have and for his service and sacrifice for our nation Thank you John and Lisa !!!
@grumpsProGaming2 ай бұрын
I am glad he found his outlet. I battle with schizophrenia and spinal issues. my fresh water and saltwater reef truly help me.
@littlemidwestrebornsdolls2 ай бұрын
Amazing! Thank you Bill for your service. 🇺🇲
@loricasto75472 ай бұрын
I honestly don’t think you Will ever top this video! Much respect and thanks for everyone involved 🥰
@donandsharonfralick76422 ай бұрын
That is so very awesome! Thank you for sharing. We have had family in every branch & still have some still in.
@MissChelleАй бұрын
So nice to meet you Sir. Thank you, for not only your service, but for sharing your story of fishkeeping as therapy. With love from Australia 🇦🇺❤️
@keithduwe26472 ай бұрын
God bless you, sir. Thank you for your service. You found peace in the greatest hobby in the world
@Irishkat84482 ай бұрын
As the daughter of a Vietnam veteran that passed away this year, I cannot even express how much this means to me! My father and I had a deep love for aquariums and fish. He bought me my first ten gallon tank as a teen. Thank you so much for this!!!❤
@jonathanpearce93102 ай бұрын
thank you John & Lisa, Mr Mason is a true legend. His story is fascinating
@mikejejenich-pb5zx2 ай бұрын
As a fellow veteran thank you for service 🙏
@Crazyfishlady7106Ай бұрын
Thank you so much for this video, I have PTSD from a home invasion and I love my fish they are so relaxing to watch❤
@KarenHudson-r4m2 ай бұрын
Wow! What an amazing story! Hearing about the therapeutic effects of the tanks for a true American hero brought tears to my eyes! Thank you for your service Mr. Mason! John and Lisa your gift of time was so inspiring! I can’t wait for your next video!
@dimmasvaerd2 ай бұрын
He's got all those tanks looking pristine and I'm over here struggling with an algae explosion in a little 29 gallon. I feel humbled watching this. This is exactly the kind of content I was hoping to see. Truly inspiring. Edited to add: I've learned a few things from this video, particularly Ron's Cichlids is an awesome site, and I need to get some Purigen.
@intothefuture1.6182 ай бұрын
A may have shed a well shed tear over this one, well done, much respect to Bill, Linda and their aquatic pets.
@HMCSrevengeАй бұрын
Tending to my tanks definitely helps me stay calm and helped my friend with ptsd who always heard me talking about setting up a saltwater tank when we were overseas.
@Kev_CichlidsАй бұрын
I have always been a fan of you, but John and Lisa , this was amazing. You both showed how caring and amazing you are, and telling this man’s story. Thank you so much. You guys are amazing people. Thank you.
@sarahtucker8160Ай бұрын
I don't tear up but omg I'm 😢, what a wonderful man I wish him all the very best ❤
@dianebailey24802 ай бұрын
Good luck for the future Bill. Well done John and Lisa xx From Birmingham UK
@sharonjack8582Ай бұрын
Way to go, KG, with your new series. Thank you. USA
@joeprovenzano43622 ай бұрын
If you guys are NOT change member, I suggest you become one. The members version is incredible. If the future vids are anything like this. It’s well worth the membership
@dublencoIgorАй бұрын
Great story, Great person, every fish is a star for him.
@murphypryor2 ай бұрын
this was AMAZING to watch!!!!!!!!!!
@JG.6768Ай бұрын
Bill, God bless you, and thank you for your service. I love your Aquariums, they are all beautiful. Great Video Lisa and John.
@kieranshannon9733Ай бұрын
Love ❤️ from Ireland 🇮🇪
@Jack_Splendens2 ай бұрын
This is how a true hero keeps top quality fish. Great inspiration to every fishkeeper and an exemplar to us all. God bless him and every pure hearted fishkeeper around the world ! ❤
@nicolaslasorsa97962 ай бұрын
This was very sweet. Happy to see this, can only hope im like this gentleman when im older
@XCaliKev2 ай бұрын
👍🤠 Thanks for doing that John and Lisa. Wonderful thing your doing.
@peasandhapsforever1102 ай бұрын
What a fantastic video and bravo to Lisa and John for making it. You are Exactly right, he truly is an American hero and man are his tanks spectacular 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
@razinfishes19182 ай бұрын
John you're absolutely right this is the top video in my opinion. As a Disabled vet myself dealing with PTSD and chronic pain. My aquarium hobby turned into MTS. But this helps me so much. Great job. And Bill Welcome home and thank you for your service!
@cmammen2 ай бұрын
Giving this to my Girlfriend who’s a therapist for veterans
@Scaperoot792 ай бұрын
This new series is so great. It's a reminder of how great this hobby can be for so many. Thank you for looking out for this American hero. I look forward to the next installment!
@bonnielopez92202 ай бұрын
An amazing story, thank you for sharing. Bill your tanks are incredible, all so inspiring. God Bless you. Semper Fi
@paulajohnson25682 ай бұрын
A very grateful Thank You for your service, Sir!! This fish keeping seems to have worked for you very well. You & your fish are amazingly awesome!! 🥰🫂
@timrussell89Ай бұрын
This video was top notch, thank you for your service sir and thank you KG for recognizing such a deserving person for the first episode.
@peanut23432 ай бұрын
This series that you and Lisa are doing is the best…shows are important having pets, and especially fish tanks help with emotional stability
@lizettebusquets43052 ай бұрын
Great video, amazing story! Thankful to Mr. Mason for his service. The tanks are beautiful!
@5660nac2 ай бұрын
Great looking Tanks and Fish. Thank you for your service.
@Darkslide2AR-FEАй бұрын
Thank you Bill for your service from one Veteran to another. Fantastic video, great interview and amazing fish!!
@Bottom_of_the_Chat-w-MikeB2 ай бұрын
Wow, this gentleman has quite the experience and story to tell! What a great hobby to be a part of. Mr. Mason, you have amazing tank set ups! Thank you for the great video!!
@edwardsclaure46382 ай бұрын
I can already say I'll live this series We need more fishroom tours from not so known aqaurists
@jpuckett3432 ай бұрын
Beautiful tanks Bill.... thank you for sharing your story.
@mrjeffish81132 ай бұрын
good job john....i remember when i met you at the schaumburg convention after your petstore didn't work out...i knew you're youtube channel was destined for you and your wife....FATE!!!!! God bless you on your success....keep up the good work!
@Bumpa196227 күн бұрын
Total respect.
@terrymartins25522 ай бұрын
One of the best videos on KZbin and an amazing story!!! Really enjoyed it and look forward to more.
@themarkedman722 ай бұрын
Respect from AUstralia, YOur BIA's from downunder.
@ibchrismcc2 ай бұрын
Goosebumps & tears ♥♥♥
@lainiebennett77462 ай бұрын
Wow! What a man. Wonderful story. THank you so much for sharing.
@Taryn.aquascaper24 күн бұрын
Godbless all in this video and their loved ones
@rhondafitzpatrick16462 ай бұрын
I would have been bawling my eyes out! what an amazing man!😢
@KGTropicals2 ай бұрын
I struggled quite a bit. Many times I had to fight back tears while Bill was telling his story. He's such an amazing man and he has a lovely wife. (Lisa)
@rhondafitzpatrick16462 ай бұрын
@@KGTropicals you and Lisa are amazing people also. you two have been my savior in many tank and fish problems for a year and a half. my sense of humor and humanity is just like yours!
@LisaAnderson-ek4pl2 ай бұрын
Wow. Just wow. Video had me in tears. Such a great and touching video. ❤️❤️❤️
@MscrazywafflesАй бұрын
This is just so great. Thank you for this! It’s so nice to see good in the world. Keep being amazing.
@putty8023Ай бұрын
Wow ! This series will become one of my favorite I am pretty certain!
@nataliturnbull16132 ай бұрын
Wow What an awesome life story. This series is looking great already!! You guys are awesome xx
@ItsLaurenE2 ай бұрын
What a wonderful 1st episode into this new series. His story is admirable, along with his dedication in V.A. and everything else he did between then and now. The fact he left the hobby and came back and had such a glorious presentation of his tanks shows how much life, love and devotion he still as in him. ❤ I wouldn't consider it a accidental commercial for the company more like a small world moment. 😊
@Gaza148602 ай бұрын
What a great episode John loved it
@reginaphalanges73312 ай бұрын
This was amazing! Brought tears to my eyes! Thank you Mr. Mason for your service! Thank you John and Lisa for doing this!❤
@markbaumgardt286819 күн бұрын
Very inspirational man old school guy I'm the same I keep Malawi haps peacocks and I also have a buitiful Frontosa all together all doing great
@lennymedeiros61182 ай бұрын
Thank you for such a great video. Powerful and inspiring! Love that Bill did so much for a country that I love. He's an inspiration. And some great looking tanks too.
@FinGardensProductions2 ай бұрын
Amazing ❤
@JosephKissSr.2 ай бұрын
Great video and amazing story! Thank you for your service, sir.
@curtiscrump71532 ай бұрын
Great story. Planning to watch to full video.
@williamavery17582 ай бұрын
I did enjoy the video seachem fritz you and Lisa are wonderful people for helping him out that's great to hear. He definitely has some amazing fish and some big wonderful looking fully stocked tanks. Another great video already I can't wait till next week for the next one next week. You and Lisa are great people and forsure have some awesome fish and tanks
@mikejejenich-pb5zx2 ай бұрын
You guys hit a home run with this video👏. 🐠
@dowelldownes44372 ай бұрын
This is the best thing you guys have ever done! Great job yall
@stuart65782 ай бұрын
This video was amazing! Thank you both so much for doing this for people and sharing it with all of us.
@ericawilson97322 ай бұрын
This was an amazing video! Thank you for sharing Bill's story with us.
@sharleanebailey27952 ай бұрын
I absolutely loved this video, even though it made me cry at times. I love the new content. ❤
@misterharrysАй бұрын
Huge like! What an amazing way to start this series! Respect!
@LisaAnderson-ek4pl2 ай бұрын
Literally can’t wait to watch this video after I work a few hours this morning. You guys are doing great things!! ❤️❤️
@jakecostello40672 ай бұрын
Amazing story, keep up the good work can’t wait to see the next story
@wendyhood10062 ай бұрын
What a fantastic video and such beautiful tanks that gentleman is awe inspiring this is going to be a great series thank you 😊
@samsonm12172 ай бұрын
First like from india 😊❤... Samson here
@sophisticatedwrat2 ай бұрын
I recently got into aquarium keeping and have been occasionally watching your videos, but I'm definitely subscribing now. I know this series will be awesome. Can't wait for what you guys have planned! Side note: It was a bit difficult to hear the guy when he spoke even though he had a microphone. I don't know anything about sound so I don't have tips. I still thoroughly liked the video.
@LadyNewgrdia2 ай бұрын
Amazing story, I love this new format!
@wendihamlett105Ай бұрын
Awesome concept! Look forward to many more in this series!