A surfer from Pacific Beach has made an inspiring return to the ocean following a life-altering incident that left him paralyzed. Thanks to a versatile surfboard, he’s getting back on track.
Colin Bosse, a graduate of San Diego State University and once a competitive youth surfer, suffered a severe injury in 2023 when he dove into shallow water, resulting in paralysis from the chest down.
Despite this traumatic spinal cord injury, Bosse has returned to the ocean with the aid of a specially designed surfboard.
“I think it’s really about the location. I’ve always found solace in the ocean; it’s my happy place,” Bosse shared. “It brings me peace and strength.”
This significant moment coincides with the third anniversary of his accident, which he refers to as his “third day alive.”
“Today marks my third day alive. It feels like a celebration of life,” he noted. “I’m grateful for my family, friends, and everyone who supports me.”
When asked to sum up his journey so far in a single word, he confidently replied, “Confident.”
Bosse’s daily routine now includes several hours of therapy alongside personal care in the mornings and afternoons. With assistance from family, he attends classes at the University of San Diego in the evenings.
“I’m not sure I’ll ever return to my previous surfing level, but I’m fully ready to surf again. There’s no doubt about it,” Bosse said in a campaign aimed at helping with his ongoing medical expenses.
Looking ahead, Bosse plans to enroll in graduate classes in business at USD by the fall of 2024 and is set to graduate with a master’s degree in business administration in May.
“I’ve always sought to push myself beyond what I thought was possible,” he remarked.
He concluded by expressing how this journey has provided him with a unique perspective, fueling his motivation for the future. “Everything that I’ve experienced gives me strength moving forward.”
