STATESIDE CHAT
With Kristin Thomas
One of the recurring themes in our paddling community worldwide is generosity and caring towards all types of causes . Big-hearted Stand Up Paddlers – through individual expeditions and group events – are often raising awareness and funds . Here are just a sampling of people and events that made a difference this summer .
Mike Shoreman
The Crossing - the USA to Canada across Lake Ontario
Mike is an amazing young man actively paddling as an instructor in Toronto , Canada , when he was struck by a debilitating condition later diagnosed as a neurological condition called Ramsey Hunt Syndrome ( RHS ) in 2018 .
Besides the many physical effects of the chronic syndrome – the right side of his face collapsed , hearing was impaired , and his speech and sense of balance seriously affected – the grief , anger , and sadness impacted his mental health . He was told he could never paddleboard again .
He documented his journey through physical and mental struggles in an excellent book ‘ Diaries of the Unbalanced Paddleboarder , Crash & Rise ’. Known by many for his ‘ paddles up ’ enthusiasm and contagious , positive energy , Mike has become a force . His preparation was arduous to get in shape for the goal of being the first person with a disability to make an international crossing .
Although he had to call off his first attempt before reaching his goal in late summer , he could still raise almost 50,000 to raise awareness for mental health through
www . Jack . org and challenge the stereotypes of people with disabilities . “ It didn ’ t turn out the way that I hoped . But it ’ s a first shot , and I ’ m going to do it again !” Your community loves you Mike , and is behind you all the way !
Photo left : Darius Bashar Photography
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