Mauli Ola Foundation Kicks off 2015 Season in Support of Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month

Mauli Ola Foundation (MOF) kicks off its 2015 tour in May in honor of Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, with its first Surf Experience Day (SED) on May 2, 2015 in Waikiki, Hawai’i. MOF Ambassador Sunny Garcia partners with Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa to host the SED and private reception, which also recognizes his upcoming induction to the Hawai’i Sports Hall of Fame.

“Mauli Ola” is a Hawaiian phrase that translates to “breath of life.” MOF sends its world-class surfing Ambassadors nationwide to host SEDs and introduce surfing as a natural therapy for children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Ocean water’s high salinity naturally breaks down the mucus that builds up in their lungs and allows them to breathe more easily, feel relief, and have fun. Ocean Experience Days get children into the water even if they are unable to surf. MOF Ambassadors visit children’s hospitals for those that cannot make it to the beach.

“I’m excited about these upcoming events. It’s a huge honor to be inducted into the Hawai’i Sports Hall of Fame, but even more fulfilling to know that the life surfing has given me can actually help someone living with cystic fibrosis breathe better,” offers Hawaiian World Champion and MOF Ambassador Sunny Garcia.

The 2015 national tour that honors Hawai’i’s state fish with the title “Humuhumunukunukuapua’a Tour” begins at the birthplace of surfing – the Hawaiian island of O’ahu – and continues to California. The second stop is Ricochet the Surfing Dog’s SED in Del Mar on May 16, continuing north to Santa Cruz for Richard Schmidt’s SED on May 23. Next it’s Laguna Beach for MOF Executive Director Hans Hagen’s SED, concluding the evening with a fundraiser at the Woman’s Club of Laguna Beach. Next up will be UFC Featherweight fighter and devoted Los Angeles surfer Brian Ortega’s SED that will take place at Manhattan Beach on June 13. Many more events follow, and details can be found here.

“It’s amazing to witness what riding a wave can do for the human spirit, but hearing the consistent testimonials from the families about lung function improvement – now that’s a miracle,” said MOF Executive Director, Hans Hagen.

The 2015 tour marks the eighth year of MOF support for those with CF and other genetic conditions. MOF President James Dunlop said, "We are honored and excited to continue our support for the CF community. We look forward to seeing familiar faces and meet new folks this season."

MOF gratefully acknowledges support from internationally recognized athletes: Sunny Garcia, Kala Alexander, Gavin Beschen, Nathan Hedge, Teddy Navarro, CJ Kahuna, Jojo Roper, Brian Ortega, Yancy Medeiros, Damien Hobgood, Mick Fanning, Sage Erickson, Jason Magallanes, Adriano De Souza, John John Florence, Makua Rothman, Nissen Osterneck, Malia Manuel, Bobby Friedman, Ben Bourgeios, Sam Hammer, Will Skudin, Allen Sarlo, and Richard Schmidt.

MOF also gives special thanks to their generous partners: presenting partner Ambry Genetics and premium annual sponsors: Flexfit, Chiesi, Da Hui, GoPro, Turtle Bay Resort. Thank you as well to Volcom, Hurley, Body Glove, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, Hotel Paradox, Alpine Stars, RVCA, Quiksilver.

ABOUT MAULI OLA FOUNDATION

Founded in 2007, Mauli Ola Foundation is dedicated to introducing surfing and ocean-based activities as natural therapies to children and young adults living with genetic diseases and cancer. To learn more about Mauli Ola Foundation, please visit www.mauliola.org.