Doing what you love to do and giving back!
A few weeks ago I had an amazing opportunity. I had a chance to watch my autistic son surf. OK, maybe not by himself, but on a long board with a professional surfer. This was all made possible through a wonderful nonprofit organization, Surfer’s Healing.
It is very challenging to have a child with special needs. Fortunately, my son is high functioning so he does get to participate in a lot of the same activities as a normally developing child. I do know from being involved and working with other children with special needs that this is many times not the case.
What I witnessed on August 12 at Folly Beach was truly fantastic. I arrived late in the day but enjoyed seeing many children and adults enjoy themselves thoroughly. It was amazing to see the turn out of volunteers in the Charleston area. People were so warm, friendly and eager to help.
My own son who has many phobias, one of which is deep water, wanted me to buy him his own surfboard after he finished surfing. It was also wonderful to see a child (my child) that has many sensory issues not whine and complain about having to go home with sand all over his feet. I do believe the experience was therapeutic for him and many others.
The event itself was extremely organized and accommodating to all. I do hope they come back to Folly Beach again next year, but if they do not I believe we are going to take a road trip to their closest camp.
I am attaching the video I took of Jacob surfing. Notice that he asks to go again. Did I mention that he was scared to go at first, even telling me when I signed him up for the camp that he would NOT go? Congratulations to Jacob (my son) for being scared and doing it anyway. Lastly, “Thank You” to Surfer’s Healing and the sponsors of the camp which made it possible for over 50 children with Autism to surf and enjoy the beach for the day!