As a marine biologist dedicated to rescuing coral reefs, every dollar I saved was destined for the future of the ocean. I had amassed $575,000 in Bitcoin over a period of years to underwrite an ambitious reef restoration program. I needed to expand our coral nursery program, build more artificial reef structures, and fund education in coastal villages. This cryptocurrency savings nest egg was oxygen for marine ecosystems on life support, more than just money. But the sea, as much as I love her, is merciless. On a trip offshore to survey bleaching patterns, I took my hardware wallet along for safety. Break-ins at our field station in the past had made me paranoid about leaving it behind. Tucked in what I thought was a top-notch waterproof case, the device was clipped inside my gear bag. Following a day beneath the water, capturing coral decay and fending off territorial triggerfish, I returned to the boat, exhausted but satisfied. That satisfaction evaporated when I opened the case...