Twenty Years Later, Kathleen Returned to the Ocean
July 13, 2026
Words: Rebecca Davidson Woroniecki
Photos: Jason Belsky (@jaybelsky)
Date: July 13th, 2026
Our day with Surf for All was so much more than just a trip to the beach—it was an unforgettable experience filled with pure joy, freedom, and encouragement. Because of our daughter’s AGS (Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome), participating in traditional sports and active recreation is usually completely out of reach for her. Most playgrounds, fields, and leagues just aren’t built with her needs in mind. But the incredible volunteers and instructors at Surf for All completely changed the script. They gave her an unforgettable, pure-joy experience out in the ocean, wrapping her in support and making sure the water was a place where she could truly thrive. Watching our daughter, Lizzie, out on the water with the absolute biggest smile on her face meant the world to our family.
Looking through the pictures, I’m just overwhelmed with gratitude. These photos capture more than just a day at the beach—they capture freedom, complete inclusion, and a smile that reached all the way to her eyes. Seeing her out on that board, feeling the spray of the waves, and knowing that barriers didn’t apply out on the water meant everything to our family. Thank you, Surf for All, for giving our girl an experience she—and we—will cherish forever.
