On October 8th over 100 participants with disabilities enjoyed a Day on the Bay with sun, fun and access to watersports. At this bi-annual event, trained MBAC instructors and specialized equipment provide opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in watersports that they might otherwise never have the chance to experience.
A favorite assignment for many MBAC staff, the goal of this event is to adapt activities such as waterskiing, kayaking and sailing to accommodate a wide range of disabilities including: stroke, brain injury, paralysis, and amputation. The event is organized and offered to the community by Sharp Rehab Recreation Therapy and funded by the Torrey Pines Kiwanis.
Sheila Arroyo, a double stroke survivor, has attended each Day at the Bay Event since her first stroke two years ago. She looks forward to the event as an opportunity enjoy kayaking, sailing, and waterskiing — activities she had never experienced before her injury.
“After my strokes I felt lucky to be alive but realized I haven’t yet lived.” Shared Sheila as she climbed into a kayak with special adaptation to accommodate mild limitation to even paraplegia. “Since my stroke I am willing to take risks and want to live life to the fullest!”
The Sharp Rehab Recreation Therapy Day at the Bay event is only possible through funds raised from the San Diego Festival of the Arts. Learn more at sdfestivalofthearts.org/donate/. Special thanks for a delicious lunch provided to participants, volunteers and staff provided by ABC Medical.
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