‘Different type of freedom.’ Surf for All program gives kids with cerebral palsy opportunity to catch waves in Long Beach
Surf For All uses a special board with a chair to make surfing a reality for those with physical challenges.
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Over a dozen children with physical challenges got the chance to ride some waves in Long Beach.
Specially trained staff at Skudin Surf’s program “Surf For All” showed young patients with cerebral palsy the basics of surfing.
Patients from the Hospital for Special Surgery like 18-year-old Aidan Conroy, of Oakdale, was one of those who was able to forget about his challenges and enjoy the waves.
“I’m nothing different than anybody else when I’m out there,” Conroy says. “It’s a different type of freedom, you can’t get this anywhere else in the world.”
The Hospital For Special Surgery says it’s a chance for some children to try something they would never imagine to be possible.
“It allows them to be a kid for the day,” says Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Jessica Heyer. “They’re not a patient.”
Surf For All uses a special board with a chair to make surfing a reality for those with physical challenges.
“In times when I’ve been confused, angry, sad, whatever, I come out here and I know I’m going to be fine,” Conroy says. “I’ll be able to surf.”
