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Brandee Anthony, known as the Vero Beach Mermaid, turned her love for water into a unique career eight years ago. Originally a stunt for her streaming channel, she fell in love with mermaiding. "I wanted to go live underwater because I'm a complete water child," she explained.
Anthony owns a variety of mermaid tails made from scuba fabric, silicone, or swimsuit material, with some costing over $6,000. She says they are easy to swim in despite weighing over 30 pounds.
Despite criticism, Anthony remains passionate. "Of course, I know I'm not actually a mermaid. This is something I chose to do as a profession because it was a fire in my soul." She also organizes the Mermaid Free Dive Summit, promoting safety and environmental efforts. "We raised money for a local sea turtle non-profit and hosted a beach cleanup," she adds.
Mermaiding has become an essential part of her life. "Everything I do these days involves a mermaid. It's great fitness and about fun and self-exploration," Anthony says.
Source: People