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Listen "If there is a Will - there is a Wave."
Episode Synopsis
World Ocean Week is celebrated from the 2-11 June with World Ocean Day being 8th June 2023, it is an important day to recognize and celebrate the ocean and its importance to our planet. It is a day to raise awareness about the ocean and its importance to our lives, and to take action to protect it.
On today's podcast we interview Michele McFarlane, a parasurfer with Retinitis Pigmentosa who represented South Africa in the 2022 World Parasurfing Championships.
Parasurfing:
A visually impaired person can still surf the waves with the help of a guide. The guide can provide verbal instructions to the surfer, such as when to paddle, when to turn, and when to stand up. The guide can also provide physical assistance, such as helping the surfer to stand up on the board and providing balance. Additionally, the guide can provide emotional support and encouragement to the surfer.
Michele's Story:
In 2005, Michele was diagnosed with 40 degrees vision due to the deteriorating eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa. Michele had to give up driving which ignited a spark to get out and tackle the world in the form of Judo. She set herself the goal of competing in the Western Province Championships, and found herself qualifying to compete in the Nationals where she won a silver medal. Michele found that the tough training gave her the strength and resilience to navigate a shrinking world.
As the years have reduced Michele's sight, she has continued to challenge herself, with the purpose of being a positive inspiration for those with disabilities. To this end, Michele has donned a bikini for at the Ms. Fitness SA Nationals, sung at the Artscape Theatre, had a book published, and hiked through rural Venda.
Two years ago, Michele did an adaptive surf clinic with the Roxy Davis Foundation, and with her signature drive entered her first local competition the following year. In December 2022 Michele represented South Africa in the World Parasurfing Championships.
Surfing has formed into an enduring passion, it's therapeutic benefits which Michele wishes to share far and wide. She does this through her posts on social media, writing and public speaking.
Michele's future plans are to compete in the Paralympics in 2028 for her 60th, her mission being to raise awareness and also to inspire others. Michele's message is that it really is never too late to be great, and to follow your dreams however silly they might seem.
Michelle is an inspiration to many, showing that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
For more information about Retinitis Pigmentosa visit www.retinasa.org.za
This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd.
Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need.
The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.
On today's podcast we interview Michele McFarlane, a parasurfer with Retinitis Pigmentosa who represented South Africa in the 2022 World Parasurfing Championships.
Parasurfing:
A visually impaired person can still surf the waves with the help of a guide. The guide can provide verbal instructions to the surfer, such as when to paddle, when to turn, and when to stand up. The guide can also provide physical assistance, such as helping the surfer to stand up on the board and providing balance. Additionally, the guide can provide emotional support and encouragement to the surfer.
Michele's Story:
In 2005, Michele was diagnosed with 40 degrees vision due to the deteriorating eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa. Michele had to give up driving which ignited a spark to get out and tackle the world in the form of Judo. She set herself the goal of competing in the Western Province Championships, and found herself qualifying to compete in the Nationals where she won a silver medal. Michele found that the tough training gave her the strength and resilience to navigate a shrinking world.
As the years have reduced Michele's sight, she has continued to challenge herself, with the purpose of being a positive inspiration for those with disabilities. To this end, Michele has donned a bikini for at the Ms. Fitness SA Nationals, sung at the Artscape Theatre, had a book published, and hiked through rural Venda.
Two years ago, Michele did an adaptive surf clinic with the Roxy Davis Foundation, and with her signature drive entered her first local competition the following year. In December 2022 Michele represented South Africa in the World Parasurfing Championships.
Surfing has formed into an enduring passion, it's therapeutic benefits which Michele wishes to share far and wide. She does this through her posts on social media, writing and public speaking.
Michele's future plans are to compete in the Paralympics in 2028 for her 60th, her mission being to raise awareness and also to inspire others. Michele's message is that it really is never too late to be great, and to follow your dreams however silly they might seem.
Michelle is an inspiration to many, showing that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
For more information about Retinitis Pigmentosa visit www.retinasa.org.za
This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd.
Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need.
The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.
In God we trust