Brock Johnson was an ocean lifeguard before his C7 injury in 2011. “After it happened, I missed surfing more than I missed walking,” said Brock to New Mobility, our membership publication. A year later, he attended a Life Rolls On adaptive surfing event in his hometown of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and rode prone on the front of a tandem board.
“As the guide paddled, I felt the familiar surge of speed when the board connected with the wave’s energy, and all of the fantastic feelings of surfing flooded my brain. On that first wave, I thought, ‘I’m home. I’m a surfer, and this is what I’m going to do.’”
To go adaptive surfing and catch some gnarly waves of your own, explore these resources provided by our Outdoor Access Working Group:
Adaptive Surf Project
Located in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Adaptive Surf Project is working on normalizing adaptive surfing, and they provide adaptive surfboards, adaptive wetsuits, and various styles of beach wheelchairs. Wheel to Surf is their flagship event, which is a surfing clinic for individuals with a disability. (843) 443-5153, info@adaptivesurfproject.com
Amp Surf
Amp Surf headquarters is located at Pismo Beach, California. They offer Learn to Surf Therapy Clinics, and a Para Surf League program to support people interested in becoming competitive Para Surfers. (805) 295-5000, surf@ampsurf.org
Gnome Surf
Based out of Little Compton, Rhode Island, Gnome Surf offers Surf Therapy through various programs including Happy Camp, Individual Surf Therapy, Group Lessons, S.A.L.T. (Surfing as Life Therapy), and Surf Fit. (508) 981-8152, gnomecreate@gmail.com
Healing Waves
HW is based in Great Britain’s Jersey Channel Islands between England and France. It offers Ocean Therapy Surfing Sessions at Le Braye and all the equipment needed to enjoy your surfing experience. (153) 486-9769, healingwavesoceantherapy@gmail.com
Life Rolls On
This organization holds adaptive surfing events in various locations, which are listed under the Get on Board Tour on the website. (424) 272-1992, contact@liferollson.org
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Surf for All
This organization is based in Long Beach, New York, and is dedicated to assisting individuals with their surfing experience. Surf for All partners with community centers, schools, and organizations throughout Long Island and offers Surf Camps and lessons. info@surfforall.org
Safety first!
Being safe and knowing how adaptive water sports activities equipment should be handled and used is extremely important in making your experience fun. To have a successful day on the water, the following should also be considered:
- Pack a survival kit with your medications, seasickness pills, first aid supplies, repair tools and extra personal medical supplies such as catheters.
- Bring drinks and food if none are provided.
- Stay hydrated, wear clothing that protects you from the sun (hat, sunglasses, etc.), and remember sunscreen.
- Wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and, if required, a properly fitted helmet and wet suit.
- Always use the correct equipment for your ability level.
- Follow standard rules and instructions, know your limits and make sure you are well-trained.
- Know and recognize the common emergency and help signals.
- Do not go alone. Have someone in close proximity in case something goes wrong.
- Avoid adapted water sports at night or during dangerous weather conditions.
Outdoor Access Working Group
Our United Spinal’s Outdoor Access Working Group collaborates with advocates across the United States to remove barriers and promote outdoor adaptive activities of all kinds. To join us, please fill out this online form.
