SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - This weekend's Wave Goodbye to MS Event will allow people in wheelchairs to glide across Mission Bay thanks to the special invention by a San Diego man.
Diagnosed with MS eight years ago, Steve Bettis' love for the ocean lives on.
"This thing heals you it's wonderful,” said Bettis.
And making it all possible for Bettis to get back in the water is Kawika Watt's invention – an invention that allows people in wheelchairs to wheel onto a paddle board and float on the water.
Watt taught surf lessons for 20 years with a goal of a getting everyone in the water, disabilities and all, so he created stand-up boards with outriggers, not for money, but for memories.
Bettis learned to surf when he was nine-years old and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2006. He still surfed for three years and when he couldn't stand up, he surfed on his knees.
The First Annual Wave Goodbye to MS Event raised $21,000, but not everyone was a fan of the open ocean.
"Last year, the surf scared people from paddling,” said Mitch Murphy the event's co-chair. He then decided this year's 5k paddle would be on smooth water in Mission Bay. And leading this year's paddle will be Steve Bettis who we have to remind that this isn't a race.
So, who would have thought a wheelchair on water.
“I am so thankful for an invention like this. It's incredible,” said Bettis.
The Second Annual Wave Goodbye to MS Event is Saturday, October 11 at Crown Point Shores. Registration starts at 8 a.m. CBS News 8's Jeff Zevely is hosting the event.