Triple Amputee on Solo Pacific Sail to Change Perceptions of Disability
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A triple amputee veteran embarked on an incredible voyage from Mexico to Japan. He aims to become the first triple amputee to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean, a journey that grows increasingly dangerous with each passing day. But his mission keeps him strong—to give back to the charities supporting him and transform other people’s perceptions of disabilities.
Craig Wood, a former rifleman in the British Army, suffered the loss of both of his legs and his left arm as a result of a roadside bomb blast in Afghanistan in 2009. Today, he is taking on an incredible challenge to sail non-stop for over 7,000 nautical miles (12,964 kilometers) from Mexico to Japan.
The 33-year-old from Doncaster, UK, began his journey from Puerto Vallarta on March 25. His goal is to arrive in Osaka by early June to avoid the onset of Japan’s typhoon season.
But the longer his journey takes, the dangers increase. In an interview with the BBC while aboard his 41-foot (12-meter) aluminum catamaran, Sirius II, near Hawaii last April, Wood shared his experience facing an early setback; he discovered water had infiltrated his starboard engine during a routine inspection. Although it’s not a major issue now, he will need that engine to get into the harbor once he arrives in Japan. But he hopes to resolve the problem before then.
Aside from that challenge, Wood described his experience as generally positive, with his biggest struggle being boredom on the vast ocean. Looking back, he wished he had loaded his Kindle e-reader with more books and had packed more beef jerky.
Related reading: Hawaii Man Finishes First Solo Voyage Around the World by A Double Amputee
Giving back to charity
Part of his mission for the voyage is to raise funds for two charities that played a vital role in his recovery: Turn to Starboard and Blesma.
Turn to Starboard offers sailing programs to help former military personnel transition into civilian life, while Blesma provides lifelong support to veterans who have lost limbs.
Wood was only 18 when he sustained life-threatening injuries during his first deployment to Sangin, Afghanistan. His injuries included a collapsed lung and massive blood loss, losing 27 pints in total. He endured 20 surgeries and spent two weeks in a coma.
Wood said that when the explosion happened, his parents immediately received support from Blesma. To give back to the two charities, Wood launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £50,000 ($66,467.75).
Changing perceptions of disability
In an interview with the Daily Express, Wood shared that his voyage is not solely focused on setting a record; it’s also about altering perceptions surrounding disability. To do this, he aims to navigate challenging waters that would test even seasoned sailors without disabilities.
Wood has encountered people who have joined him on his journey, and he noted that they are often uncertain about what to expect from a triple amputee handling a boat. They wonder if they would need to assist him constantly.
However, many tell him their experience sailing with him has shifted their perspective on what is achievable for people with disabilities. This perception shift is Wood’s ultimate goal with this voyage.
As of this writing, Wood continues his extraordinary journey across the Pacific. Every day, he proves that physical limitations do not define one’s capabilities. His determination and passion are a reminder of the strength that lies within.
Related reading: Model Proudly Flaunts Prosthetic Legs After Years of Shame
