Empowering Surfers and Survivors
What began as a casual surf session among eight women in 1997 has grown into a powerful community committed to fostering sisterhood and empowering women through surfing.
Samantha Ryan, the president and a founding member, says Sisters of the Sea (SOS) fosters a deep sense of connection and community that continues to grow. With activities ranging from monthly surf meet ups to an annual women-only surf competition, SOS aims to inspire more women to surf and provide support to community members affected by breast cancer.
Annual Surf Competition to Support Breast Cancer Charity
Since 1999, SOS has hosted the Annual Sisters of the Sea Women’s Surf Classic PRO/AM in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. The event welcomes women of all ages and skill levels to surf in support of breast cancer awareness.
The event has raised over $145,000 to support Bosom Buddies, a breast cancer survivorship group at the Women’s Center in Jacksonville Beach. Ryan says the group’s sense of community continues to grow each year, with members being able to lean on each other in times of need.
A Day of Fun in the Sun: Surf Lessons for Survivors
Each year, SOS hosts the Sisters & Survivors event, where breast cancer survivors are invited to the beach for free surf lessons and to get to know other community members. With up to 75 volunteers, this special event celebrates life, resilience, and the joy of catching waves in a safe and welcoming environment.
Inspired by Fellow Surfer’s Struggle with Breast Cancer
Sisters of the Sea was founded in 1997 by eight women aiming to increase female presence in surfing. Saddened by the passing of renowned surfer Rell Sunn in 1999 after her 15-year battle with breast cancer, the group was inspired by her remarkable legacy of helping others to start their annual surf classic. It is now one of the longest running all-female surf contests. SOS is one the few non-profit all-women surf organizations in the nation with over 300 members.
Monthly Surf Sessions & Beach Clean Ups
On the first Sunday of each month, SOS members come together for surf sessions, beach cleanups, and social gatherings. These events celebrate sisterhood, nurture a love for the environment, and reinforce the group’s commitment to fostering community through surfing and charitable giving.
SurvivorRx Supports SOS
Marzena Mignone, co-founder of SurvivorRx, reflects on her friendship with SOS president Samantha Ryan, stating,
“Sam has always been an inspiration to me. Her passion for uniting women through surfing and supporting breast cancer survivors is incredible, and it’s a privilege for SurvivorRx to stand beside Sisters of the Sea. We are proud to help create waves of change in the lives of so many.”
At SurvivorRx, we believe in the transformative power of community. Supporting Sisters of the Sea aligns perfectly with our mission to uplift and empower survivors. Together, we celebrate strength, connection, and the inspiring journey of healing through shared experiences.
References
Sisters of the Sea Youtube: Sisters of the Sea- Share the Stroke
News4JAX: Sisters of the Sea gearing up for 26th annual Women’s Surf Classic in Jacksonville Beach
WUFT: Girls, women 'sharing the stoke' at annual surfing contest at Jacksonville Beach
