The first Virginia Beach Surfers Healing camp was held in August 2005 to honor local surfer Paul Vaughan. He taught countless youth to surf, including his two sons, Eli and Matt. Like Israel and Danielle Paskowitz, Paul understood that being in the ocean provided a place to “find respite,” to heal. Hosting this event that first year, seeing first-hand the amazing transformation for the campers, helped his family and friends heal from the grief of his loss.  In all the subsequent years, the amazing and beautiful moments continue to take our breath away. Surfers Healing—healing all of us.

Suzan’s Paddleout Tribute - April 2005

Paul loved the ocean and had a great affinity for all water – he played in it, worked on it, and led efforts to protect it.  It gave him physical and spiritual comfort.  We are here today in the hopes of being comforted ourselves, both by the ocean and by the presence of his spirit in those who loved him.

Most of you probably heard Paul say at least once, “I can’t read a book, but I can read people.”   He had no tolerance for pretense, but loved to be in the company of genuine people.  He loved talking and telling a story in all its detail and with fresh passion each time.  Like an ancient narrator, the point was not the story itself but rather the telling of the story.

Paul always gave freely of his time to others.  He offered help when someone needed a hand or something needed to be fixed.  And he could fix most anything.  From his humble beginnings, he, like his brothers, learned not to discard but to coax life out of broken parts.   

In every major life decision, starting at the young age of 16, Paul put his family first.  He taught his two sons, Eli and Matt, the value of hard work and self sufficiency, but he also taught them to have fun and to live with vigor.

Paul fought cancer the way he lived, full-on and with no holds barred.  When he knew he’d lost the fight, he did not wring his hands in pity.  His only complaint “It’s not fair” continues to echo in my head.

He died peacefully and at peace. I believe this was because he knew his capable and loving sons and grandsons would carry on his legacy and that his spirit would live forever through them.