Charlotte Banfield, who faces challenges due to cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism, found a life-changing reprieve in surfing at age 13. Enrolled in a six-week surfing course by her mother amid bullying and profound depression, she initially struggled with fear of water but eventually experienced a liberating moment catching her first wave. This newfound confidence led her back to education, ultimately earning a master's degree in marine biology. At age 26, she became a gold medal-winning para surf champion, celebrated at the National Maritime Museum in Cornwall, highlighting the deep cultural significance of surfing in the region.
When I went up on my first wave, I felt free for the first time in my life.
Surfing gave me confidence. There aren't many sports where you could be eaten by a wild animal.
It was an honour when I won a gold and beyond an honour to get mentioned in this museum.
Although surfing dates back thousands of years, the pursuit has become as much part of Cornwall's heritage as pasties, piracy and painting.
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