1. Tell us a little about yourself (Simple intro: name where you’re from, what you like to do…
My name is Zoltan Horvath. I’m from Europe, Budapest, Hungary and was born in 1976. I came to the United States in 1990 loving the Island lifestyle. I was a finish carpenter and beekeeper, which I am still able to do with my friends I like to spend time with my family and friends also I really enjoy snorkeling and just being in the water in general. There is no ocean in Budapest, but I used to be a soccer player. When I moved to Hawaii, I really appreciated the island life and got in to surfing, but I still enjoyed soccer by coaching my kids’ soccer teams.
Things changed when I had a stroke in 2021, and that changed my life. I was in the hospital four times, survived two brain surgeries and am still recovering from hip surgeries. I would like to thank my family, my wonderful wife and my kids, for helping me on this incredible journey. Never Give Up!
2. How and when did you first hear about /start with AccesSurf?
I heard about AccesSurf from the Rehab Hospital of the Pacific about a year ago. The therapists there recommended AccesSurf as a way to continue my recovery after leaving the hospital.
The first time I showed up at ASH at White Plains, I was really shocked at how friendly and happy everyone was. It was such a great event to be at, and incredible to be surrounded by all the positive energy.
3. What does AccesSurf mean to you?
I really appreciate all the volunteers and staff, and how friendly and dedicated they are to helping me and people like me. I am really thankful to AccesSurf that I can be part of their journey. It has really changed my life and they have become my second family.
4. Favorite AccesSurf memory?
My first time surfing, I wasn’t able to get on my knees, but I was determined to get up the next time. I went home and then I practiced all month long just going from laying down to moving up to my knees.
When I surfed at my second Day at the Beach, I was jumping up to my knees. I was so inspired and that was my biggest moment in my life – to be able to get up to my knees on the board and surf!
5. Anything you want to say or share with our AccesSurf ‘ohana?
I encourage everyone that I know that is in a similar situation as me to join AccesSurf, even if you don’t surf there is so much they can do for you. I really appreciate the opportunities they have created for me.
