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Monday, 14 June 2010
What an amazing Saturday. This past weekend a few members from The Blue Project met up at first point in Malibu to lend a hand to Surfer's Healing.
Surfer's Healing events are held nationally every year. This event featured many dedicated and talented surfers such as Jordan Tappis, Scott Caan, Brenden Hern, Kalani Robb, Izzy Paskowitz, Colton Sarlow, David Olan, Skylar Peak, Jimmy Gamboa, Brian McNulty, Pat Nataro, Jamie Pagent and many more. Most of these individuals are returning volunteers and relish in dedicating their time to share the passion of surfing.
The afternoon was overflowing with laughter from stoked children.
From Director Steven Lippman: "Having participated in this event annually, I am no stranger to the intense moments shared between surfers and children when out in the ocean.
This year specifically really resonated within me, due to one special young man I had the pleasure of meeting. His name was Sean, he is three years old. From the moment we met, I could tell his condition was far more extreme then that of other children I had surfed with in the past. We paddled out into the surf and sat the watching other children. Every time I would go to paddle towards a wave, his entire body would clinch and he would cling to me for safety. He went as far as holding both of my arms restraining me from moving. It was a slow process, acclimating him to the ocean. It started with me holding his little hands and running them through the ocean's surface. Then we moved on to actually paddling towards the surf. It was very emotional for me to experience his sensory development out in the water. This process was full of up's and downs. Moments where he was laughing and playing and others where we would retreat into the prison of his condition. It saddened me beyond what words can express.
We rode a wave together.
When we landed on the beach, I handed Sean to his father he began to cry. I cannot begin to fathom what was circulating through his mind. It was everything in me not to share his sentiments and completely break down. I handed him off to his parents and at that moment the only emotion I can conjure is admiration. I can't begin to understand what Sean's family copes with everyday. It caused me to reflect on my family's good fortune and gave me a chance to experience moments that will have had a life lasting impact. Holding Sean in my arms, gaining his trust in the water, sharing his energy made me think of my 2 year old son, Ryder. Some moments I share with him, other parents may never get that opportunity. I am truly grateful to have the chance to give back to others, and will continue to support organizations such as Surfer's Healing."
To everyone reading this post, Surfer's healing provides an indescribable experience to children who are imprisoned by the disease of autism. They are truly heroes.
To get involved please visit Surfershealing.org
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