The ‘Girl-Power’ Surfing Dog Empowering PTSD Veterans and Kids in Need, in USA

The concept of connecting people together through the challenges they face is no more apparent than in this new form of innovative therapy taking place in California, USA.

They call it ‘Waves of Empowerment’ where groups of young children with a range of special needs and disabilities are joined together by one of the worlds very few working, surfing dogs – Ricochet, and accompanying her are a group of veteran former soldiers who are each suffering with PTSD and finding it difficult away from the battleground and getting on with normal lives with their families and friends.

They all get-together on a regular basis as equals in a safe, caring environment where empowerment is nurtured through surfing, recreation and play and becomes part of a wider level of tailored intervention for each former-soldier as well as the kids with a broad range of special needs.

e:

The organisers told newsivity about the motivations for including PTSD suffering veterans in their therapy:

“Every 65 minutes a veteran with PTSD takes their life by suicide. That’s upto 22 lives a day! Through this unique model, we are determined to reduce these staggering statistics and improve the lives of our physically and emotionally wounded war heroes. To that end, we provide opportunities that enable them to continue their life of service, and find new purpose by engaging in community-based services while also getting to mentor and inspire future generations.”

Judy Fridono, who is one of the organisers of the therapy also told Newsivity:

“Feelings such as isolation and social anxiety are replaced with inter-connection and trusting friendships… all built in a playground of transformation!”

And Ricochet is no ordinary working canine. Not only has she built up quite the online following from her therapeutic ‘surfing’ work with young children in need… but she has also been mingling with the celebrities during her journey, having made friends with the likes of actor Joey Lawrence, comedienne Betty White, and also having been featured on the Oprah show.

Ricochet is one special four-legged friend to all humans … and she’s making her own, personal contribution in spreading her dose of ‘Paw-some Girl Power’ joy worldwide.

e:

Special thanks to: Judy Fridono