CREATING WAVES OF ADVENTURE

MAKING A SPLASH

Thanks to the all-terrain wheelchair provided to her by the Surfgimp Foundation, 7-year-old Molly Ann Jones can frolic in the ocean with her family.

THE SURFGIMP FOUNDATION HELPS THOSE WITH NEEDS TO EXPERIENCE AMAZING OPPORTUNITIES ON THE WATER

Written by Kristen Hampshire | Photography by Pamela Aquilani

An all-terrain wheelchair gifted to Molly Ann Jones from the Surfgimp Foundation

has given the 7-year-old girl a vehicle to explore the world — especially the ocean, where she joins her family on a boogie board and enjoys the waves.

Molly Ann’s mother, Stacey Jones, shared: “It’s beach days and quality time with her dad, exploring the woods. It’s smiles and laughter while making memories that will last a lifetime. Having this chair allows her the childhood she deserves.”

The Surfgimp Foundation was formed in 2017 by Melanie and her late husband, Jay Liesener, who was injured in high school and became a quadriplegic. When he was in his 30s, some friends helped him get back into the water with an adapted surfboard. “They formed a family of friends and volunteers to help him surf the East Coast, and then as a group we traveled to Puerto Rico, Hawaii and California,” Melanie said.

During his last days, Jay wanted to share a legacy to help others chase their dreams like he did. “So, we formed a foundation to give grants to people who are looking to engage in physical activities to bring joy to their lives who might also have some financial barriers,” Melanie shares.

Since 2018, the Surfgimp Foundation awarded more than $200,000 in grants to 70 people. The grant application window is from October 1 to December 1. Some request adaptive wet suits with Velcro and zippers, or custom-made suits to accommodate missing limbs or those with additional padding in certain areas based on physical disabilities,” Melanie explained. JAY’S LEGACY

Jay & Melanie Liesener formed Surfgimp in 2017 to help those with challenges chase their dreams.

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Whenever she has the opportunity to visit the beach and play in the ocean, Molly Ann radiates with joy and laughter.

From adaptive surfboards to sponsoring entry fees for surf competitions, most requests center on the water. Said Melanie: “The healing aspect of water is a pervasive theme.”

Molly Ann’s grant was awarded in 2018, and since then she has been soaking in opportunities to explore the world. “Knowing Jay’s story and his impact on the world, I am filled with so much hope for Molly Ann’s future. I know she will conquer the world,” her mother said. CS

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