Surf Action – Rash Vests
Saturday, July 31st, 2010
It’s not everyday that ASP gets a customer like Russ Pierre. When we do it’s a chance to be involved in a project where any potential financial gain is immaterial. It was only after Russ asked for a quote for some T Shirts and rash vests that we found out what his organisation “Surf Action” does.
“We take them surfing and put smiles on their faces” is how Russ Pierre described it. He is referring to the returning combat veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or disabilities – such as amputees – whom Surf Action takes surfing. Surf instructor Russ, 40, set up the company with ex-British Army soldier Rich Emerson, 43, last September. Mr Emerson, who served with the Queen’s Royal Irish Hussars in Desert Storm, suffered from PTSD after serving in the Gulf War.
Russ explained: “What we do is use the beach environment as a way to escape daily barriers faced by the veterans and their families. ”It’s hard to say what it is about surfing that is so therapeutic. They say that only a surfer knows the feeling – it’s either the anticipation of going surfing or the excitement.”
Last month, The Western Morning News featured a group of Marines from Plymouth who took part in a surf therapy course organised by Russ and Surf Action. Ben McBean, 23, who lost his left arm and right leg during combat; Nicolas Gibbons, 19, a below-the-knee amputee, and Jay Hare, 29, who lost his leg below the knee, all managed to stand up on their surf boards by the end of four days instruction. The Marines, based at HMS Brave in Plymouth, said surfing boosted their confidence – and gave them a massive sense of achievement.
As a result of meeting Russ and hearing about all the positive stuff he is doing locally with returning combat veterens, we offered to print Surf Actions Rash Vests for free.
ASP enjoy working with all of our different clients, but when we get one like Russ who gives so much of his time and energy to others for no profit, we’re stoked to be able to help out. If you are interested in finding out more about Surf Action, or going along as a group or individually, go to www.surfaction.co.uk or call Russ on 01736 811920.
