“It Doesn’t Get More Inspiring”: $70 Million Worth Actor Congratulates Surfing Sensation Who Came Back From the Dead for an Emotional Achievement

It seems like the ocean brings out the best in us, as there are many inspiring stories in the surfing world. One of the most notable ones is the tale of Jesse Billauer. The quadriplegic surfer had to overcome numerous adversities to become a pioneer in surfing. Jesse used to be one of the top 100 junior surfers in the world. He was merely weeks away from turning professional when a tragedy struck. However, from then till now, he has never let anything hold him back.

Surfing was his love and that fact still holds true. His work in the industry has earned him worldwide recognition and several accolades. Not only has he shone in competitive surfing, but he has worked hard for the welfare of the community as well. Recently, he was felicitated by the surfing industry and inducted into the Surfer’s Walk of Fame. A very special actor congratulated him on his amazing achievement.

Sean Penn is overjoyed at the astounding achievement

A video that was shared on Jesse Billauer’s Instagram revealed the famous actor Sean Penn giving the heartiest congratulation to the quadriplegic surfer after he was inducted into the Walk of Fame. In the video, Sean Penn said, “I just want to extend all the biggest congratulations possible to Jesse, and frankly to those who selected him for this Huntington Surf Walk of Fame. You know, we have all seen it with him.”

He further praised the pioneer in the field for defeating all roadblocks in his life. Clearly, Sean Penn was motivated by the surfer, as he added, “It doesn’t get more inspiring. Umm… Nothing gets more inspiring than surfing, and nobody’s more a surfer than Jesse. Just, uh, a real gift of a man and a real gift of an art form and lifestyle. So, congrats Jesse!” Billauer was congratulated by Rob Machado and Coldplay’s Chris Martin as well. Jesse Billauer expressed his gratitude while sharing the post on his social media.

Read more: “Was in a Coma for a Month”: Years After Getting Brain Surgery, Man Says Yes to Life With a New-Born Surfing Dream

In the caption, he wrote, “I really appreciate the kind words Sean. It’s an honor to call you a friend. I am very grateful for all of the love and support I have been receiving from everyone.” The surfing community showered their love on this special human being. And no one is more deserving of the praise than this surfer, who beat death to say yes to life and to his dreams of surfing despite being paralyzed after a horrific accident.

An inspiring surfing journey

In 1996, when he was just 17 years old, a surfing accident left Jesse Billauer paralyzed. It was a normal Malibu morning that ended in a tragic manner. While riding the heart of a barrel, Jesse was thrown headfirst onto a shallow sandbar. As a result, his vertebrae were fractured and he was paralyzed. One might think that his surfing dreams were shattered, however, Jesse was not ready to give up. With the help of his loved ones, he got back into the game. He opened a foundation called ‘Life Rolls On’ to help people in similar circumstances overcome their problems.

Not only is he a motivational speaker, but he has also excelled in competitive surfing. He is a 3-time World Adaptive Surfing Champion, a 6-time US National Adaptive Surfing Champion, and even got first place in the Hawaii Adaptive Surfing Championships. Billauer, through his foundation, also organizes unique surfing events where differently-abled surfers can come together to enjoy a day on the waves. He is truly an inspiration to the entire surfing community, and also a superhero to heroes such as Sean Penn.