Teen who has cerebral palsy rides the waves thanks to surf board adaptation

A collaborative effort involving British charity Cerebra, Surfability UK and Tonic Surf Therapy produced a unique surf board that is set to open up the waters to people who have severe disabilities. 13 year old Kai Lewis from Port Talbot loves extreme sports and the rush that comes with them. His cerebral palsy has prohibited him taking part in sports for the most part, until now that is.

After 10 years of the CIC (Cerebra Innovation Centre) research’s in collaboration with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), last Week Kai realised his dream. He went surfing for the first time in his life with a hand from an instructor and the adapted surf board which is fitted with a seat to keep Kai safe.

(courtesy of www.disabilitysportwales.com)

Leanne Lewis, Kai’s mother couldn’t be happier and proud. Speaking to Disability sport wales' website she said: “With this now, he can sit back, relax, and ride the wave. The first he caught was the biggest he has ever caught, and my heart was in my mouth. It was amazing and it opens up so many options, not just for Kai, but for other children with disabilities."

The first test went incredibly well, the hope is that Kai will be an example to get more children out of the wheelchair. This is definitely a challenge for Cerebra to help all children with neurological conditions and to get them more opportunities through the influence of the sport.

Dr Ross Head, CIC Product Design Manager, said: “The day went so well. We could not have hoped for better surf conditions, weather, and great team of people with the desire to make this work. It was an amazing feeling to see Kai surf past shouting with joy.”( www.disabilitysportwales.com)

Teen who has cerebral palsy rides the waves thanks to surf board adaptation

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