Everything worked out smoothly on Wednesday August 22, 2012 as 250 kids participated in surf camp on Folly Beach put together by Surfers Healing and local Folly resident Nancy Hussey. There was free parking, and free lunch, and even mother nature helped out with some of the prettiest waves seen on Folly in a while. It was a perfect set, the height was just right for the kids enjoyment on long easy rides.
“Surfers Healing was founded by Israel and Danielle Paskowitz. Their son, Isaiah, was diagnosed with autism at age three. Like many autistic children, he often suffered from sensory overload– simple sensations could overwhelm him. The ocean was the one place where he seemed to find respite.
A former competitive surfer, Israel hit upon an idea–with Isaiah on the front of his surfboard, and Izzy steering from the back, the two spent the day surfing together. Surfing had a profound impact on Isaiah. Israel and Danielle decided they wanted to share this unique therapy with other autistic children. They began to host day camps at the beach where autistic children and their families could be exposed to a completely new experience of surfing. ” (from Surfers Healing.org)
The camps are held all around America and beyond, and today was Folly Beach’s turn. The whole show was orchestrated by Nancy 
Hussey, who among other things is a leader in the local Surfrider chapter, helps with the Eastern Surfing Associtaion, and is a photographer and surf mom. Countless hours went into fundraising and organizing the event, and it was pulled off beautifully. It is truly amazing to see the smiles and joy on the faces of the campers, it fills your heart with warmth just being around them.
After a quick life jacket fitting process, the kids went down the runway and into the water, as numerous instructors rode tandem with the campers. Volunteers were keeping a close eye from the surf and would join the crowd in cheering for each surfer, whether they were timidly afraid or riding on top of instructors’ shoulders. It was a treat for the parents who get to participate in a special activity with their child and create lifetime memories.
Thank you to the sponsors, volunteer, and parents for bringing such a joyous occasion to Folly Beach. Each year it has gotten more popular and I feel more is to come. See you next year!
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