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Cape Town, South Africa – In a region where children with disabilities often face significant barriers to healthcare and social inclusion, a groundbreaking approach is making waves: surf therapy. This innovative method, championed by competitive surfer and researcher Roxy Davis, is transforming the lives of children with disabilities in South Africa.
Davis, who founded the Roxy Davis Foundation in 2019, noticed a stark lack of representation of people with disabilities in her sport. This observation spurred her doctoral research, focusing on ocean-based therapy. Her work demonstrates that surf therapy significantly enhances the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of these children.
The therapy involves teaching children with disabilities to surf, promoting psychological, physical, and psychosocial well-being. This approach is backed by growing research, including studies on Aboriginal children in Australia and individuals with autism spectrum disorder in Ireland and South Africa. Davis’s research involved an adapted surf therapy program for five children aged 12 to 16, all with varying disabilities and from under-resourced communities in the Western Cape.
The six-week program included three-hour surf sessions, adapted equipment like mobility mats and amphibious beach wheelchairs, and “surfers’ circles” for discussions. The results were remarkable.
Charlie, a 12-year-old with cerebral palsy, expressed joy at being able to surf with his family, with his teacher noting a significant improvement in his self-awareness. Tala, 15, also with cerebral palsy, gained newfound confidence, stating, “Once I started surfing, I felt free and confident.” Her school psychologist highlighted her ability to transfer this confidence to other areas of her life.
Princess, 15, with spina bifida, gained such confidence that she weaned herself off nappies. Her guardian likened her experience to “winning a gold medal.” Thabo, 14, a leg amputee, found a sense of belonging in the ocean, and learned to control his temper and be himself.
Perhaps the most striking transformation was seen in Rowan, 15, a quadruple amputee. He initially doubted his ability to surf but quickly embraced the sport, setting his sights on becoming a Paralympic champion. He achieved remarkable success, winning a provincial parasurfing competition, placing second in the South African Para Surfing Championships, and representing South Africa at the World Para Surfing Championships, where he placed 17th.
Davis’s research highlights the potential of surf therapy to empower children with disabilities, demonstrating that focusing on ability rather than limitation can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The program not only provides physical benefits but also fosters emotional resilience and social inclusion.
This research and these personal stories show that the ocean can be a powerful tool for therapy and empowerment, especially for those who face daily challenges.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided by The Conversation and summarizes the research conducted by Roxy Davis. Individual results may vary, and surf therapy should be conducted under the supervision of qualified professionals. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
