Surfers For Autism a Transformative Event

I awoke with excitement and anticipation and organized myself to head out to Tybee Island for the 3rd Annual Coastal Surfers for Autism event this past Saturday. This is our biggest and favorite charitable event we participate in every year. By the time my feet hit the warm sand there were some 20 tents set up and several hundred people gathered. There was a wonderful breeze and the surf was definitely up! Finally after some introductions and a prayer the surfing began.

Miracles Happen

Family and friends stood at waters edge as they watched the kids go apprehensively out on surfboards with their supportive team. Then miracles began to unfold before us. As each surfboard loaded with a belly down child clinging to the sides returned on a wave, there were huge smiles and giggles of tickled pleasure. Soon we began to see the children begin to stand on their board and catch a wave. At each successful wave surfed, teams, family members and the young surfers would jump and throw their arms in the air in jubilation. The transformation from uncertainty to confidence and success was mesmerizing. One of the family members Joe Costello said it best with a post on his Facebook:

"Thank you for the smile on my son Sean's face! Thank you to the professionals from SFA, Tybee Police, Tybee Fire, Tybee Ocean Rescue, volunteers, and businesses who made this a wonderful event. I watched another boy cry hysterically on his first set, the next wave he popped up and rode it in to the beach to the cheers of all. It is overwhelming all that you did this past Saturday for so many. This was our first event, but it will not be our last."

Fun Under The Tents

Although surfing was the main event there was much bonding and fun being had in the sand under the tents. The loving, warm, friendly energy was palpable. There was an atmosphere of non-judgment and ease in connecting with others. Everyone was partaking in fun activities out of the water, and bonding with new found friends. The energy of the day spread to everyone.

"David Costrini: I'm not exaggerating when I say that I went to this event, and that it was one of the most amazing and powerful things I've ever seen. The kids, families, and volunteers were just over the top incredible and inspiring."

I was told this would be a life changing event, and it was. I am already thinking about next year, as I am sure the children are too. Maybe we will see you out there next year?

Watch a WTOC News channel video on this event.