Disabled surfer launches new project to help fellow cancer survivors

A SURFER from Newquay who became a national champion after losing nearly a quarter of his upper body to a rare disease has launched a new project to help fellow cancer survivors.

Stephen Downes has started the Dawn Patrol Project to benefit other people affected by sarcoma rediscover their confidence, connection and joy through surfing.

Eight people took part in the first Surfing through Sarcoma camp at The Wave in Bristol over three days. They enjoyed beginner surf lessons , alongside wellbeing activities including meditation and sound baths as part of the first of its kind camp to help them rediscover their bodies after cancer.

Stephen knows first-hand how important surfing can be when adjusting to life after cancer. He was diagnosed with myxofibrosarcoma, a rare form of soft tissue cancer in 2022, more than 20 years after being treated for Hodgkin lymphoma. Stephen underwent major surgery which removed his entire left arm and shoulder, collarbone, three ribs and part of his chest wall.

The lifelong surfer was so determined to return to the water, so he adapted the way he surfed and went on to become a two-time English kneeboard champion.

The experience has inspired him to create his new Community Interest Company, The Dawn Patrol Project, and give other people affected by sarcoma the opportunity to experience the connection, challenge and simple enjoyment he found in the water.

Stephen said: "When I came out of hospital, I had to work out who I was and what my life was going to look like. Getting back in the water gave me something to work towards and, more importantly, made me feel like me again.

"This Camp wasn't about who could stand up on a board or catch the most waves. It was about eight people who have been through life-changing experiences, getting in the water, laughing, challenging themselves and doing it together.

"I've wanted to create this since I realised what surfing had given back to me. Seeing everyone together at The Wave has been incredibly special.

“This pilot couldn’t have gone any better and seeing the group bond, share their experiences and grow in confidence was everything I’d hoped for. I'm now fully focused on funding and running even more Surfing Through Sarcoma camps in 2027.”

The Wave CEO, Julian Topham, added: "What Stephen has created is really special because it comes from his own experience and his desire to share something that has meant so much to him.

"We believe being in and around water and spending time outdoors can bring real joy. Seeing this group learning together, encouraging each other and having a lot of fun is exactly why we want The Wave to be a place that feels open to everyone."

Lucie Matthews, aged 27, from Bristol, who took part in the pilot programme, said: “Eight years post-cancer, I hadn't really returned to the water since my diagnosis, largely through fear and uncertainty. This opportunity changed that overnight.

“The combination of expert coaching, unwavering support, and being surrounded by people who simply understand the complexities of sarcoma gave me the confidence to challenge myself in ways I never expected. Catching those final waves as a group was an emotional reminder that cancer doesn’t define our limits.”