One More Wave’s Ambassador of Stoke – Buster Kawasaki – grew up in Hawaii and after high school enlisted in the Army to travel the world and serve his country. He served as a Fuel & Electrical Systems Repairman for eight years where he worked on building the small components of engines. Buster’s service led him to New Jersey, Maryland, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Germany.
In 2008, he was diagnosed with Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 6; he believes this late onset is hereditary. “My father has it, I describe it as if I were drunk – staggering and slurred speech,” he said. “It’s part of my life, so I just live it to the fullest. Having a positive attitude helps me a lot, I’m not going to cry over spilled milk."
Surf Therapy
Despite growing up and living in Hawaii, Buster has been surfing for only four years come this July. As a Prone Surfer, Buster describes that the ocean is a release for him, “It’s my freedom! I don’t have to worry about my walker or my wheelchair,” he said. “When you’re in the water floating on your board I don’t even think of my condition.”
Customized Surfboard
When not surfing, Buster enjoys promoting his passion of Health Fitness Positivity Adaptation. As much as Buster loves to workout and stay-fit, he also loves to help people achieve their health and fitness goals. He hopes to take up airbrushing again. When asked about what he would say to someone thinking of receiving surf therapy he said, “It’s freeing, it’s amazing what the ocean can do for your mind and body. I guarantee that you’ll love it”.