Abigail “Abby” Meagher, a spirited 12-year-old living with ataxic cerebral palsy, has recently embarked on an adventurous two-week trip along the East Coast, fully immersing herself in adaptive surfing with her family. The road trip, organised through Surfers Healing, a non-profit organisation focused on providing surfing experiences for individuals with disabilities, allowed Abby to explore the ocean while enjoying a supportive and inclusive environment.
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During a Zoom interview with her mother, Emily, Abby expressed her excitement for the trip, displaying her enthusiasm for surfing. When asked about her surfing expectations, she quickly pointed out her preference for “big waves”, a sentiment that resonated with her family as they ventured to various beaches during their journey.
As the family participated in activities with Surfers Healing, Abby was eager to hop on a surfboard under the guidance of an instructor. One video shared by Emily on TikTok captured the excitement of their early morning departures, as the family set off to the beach around 6 a.m., arriving at their destination just before 10:40 a.m. The joy of the experience was palpable as Abby entered the water, ready to embrace the waves.
In addition to surfing, Abby has actively engaged in a range of adaptive sports, including rock climbing, swimming, skiing, pickleball, kayaking, and golf. Each activity has provided her with opportunities to enhance her mobility while having fun. One particularly memorable experience occurred during a rock-climbing session, where Abby was encouraged to climb to a height she felt comfortable with. However, defying expectations, she soared to the top without hesitation, showcasing her determination and skill, much to the pride of her mother.
Emily hopes that these diverse experiences will continue to bring happiness to Abby without her having to question whether certain activities are suitable for her. With this in mind, the Meaghers have adopted a philosophy centred on exploration—encouraging Abby to participate in various activities, whether through adaptive equipment or by simply trying something new.
The family’s two-week surfing excursion extended beyond the beach and redefined their daily life together. Living in a camper van created an opportunity for more personalised and meaningful experiences as they travelled from beach to beach. Emily described their days as having a calming rhythm, starting with mornings filled with breathtaking views before spending time at the beach and participating in the surfing programme.
While the experience included some less glamorous aspects—such as navigating shower arrangements and washing up in the sink outside—the little challenges only added to the adventure, which Emily cherished. She reflected on how their days involved leisurely mornings, accessible activities, and the joy of discovering new places together.
Emily documented their journey through social media, sharing glimpses of their life on the road, the beautiful locations they visited, and the memorable moments they experienced together. She fondly remarked on the joy of living on the road as a family, celebrating both the small victories and daily routines.
Now back at home for a brief period, the family is transitioning into a new homeschooling year while preparing for future travels. Abby continues her physical therapy and enjoys outdoor activities like bike riding and playing at the beach. Walking on the sand has emerged as a casual yet effective way for her to engage in physical therapy, demonstrating once again how adaptability can foster both enjoyment and improvement.
As Abby continues to thrive in her pursuit of joy and exploration, her family remains committed to finding opportunities that both inspire and support her ambitions. Their efforts highlight the importance of creating inclusive experiences for children with disabilities—and the profound impact that such moments can have on their overall well-being.