Al Kegle faces the challenges of living with autism every day, but Saturday is a day he looks forward to every year.

"I was afraid," Kegle said.

Not anymore. Kegle is now fearless on a surfboard.

"A surfer, a strong bold and bossy surfer," he said.

About 200 children, young adults and their families participated in Surfers For Autism, which returned to Flagler Beach for its seventh-annual event.

  • Surfers For Autism returned to Flagler Beach for its 7th-annual event
  • The waves help people with autism open up, smile, speak
  • For more information, go to the Surfers For Autism's website

The event has given Kegle a confidence boost for the last five years. It provides for Kegle and so many others the opportunity to forget they have autism for a day, as they let go in the water with more than 400 volunteers.

The organization is currently on a 14-city tour, including stops in Australia and Puerto Rico.

"It's powerful. You watch this foundation and our volunteers somewhat remove autism from the picture for a short period of time," said Don Ryan, president of Surfers for Autism. "It's the most emotional thing there is."

Ryan said surfing is therapeutic for people living with autism. Some smile for the first time. Others say their first words.

Kegle's mother said surfing has change her son.

"It really helps people like us," Edith Kegle said. "Parents ... we feel like we have support, and that's a big deal. Giving anybody hope is what life is all about."

The event is free thanks to donations and sponsorships. It truly is priceless for the participants.

"I'm a man now," Kegle said. "I'm not afraid anymore. I'm bold."

For more information, go to Surfers For Autism's website.